Quick Pick — Maud Lewis at Loch Gallery in Toronto

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Maud Lewis, “Covered Bridge with Three Sleighs,” circa 1965, oil on board, 11.5" x 13.75" (courtesy of Loch Gallery, Toronto)

A collection of paintings by renowned Maritime artist Maud Lewis is on view now through Nov. 9 at Loch Gallery in Toronto.

Lewis, who lived in poverty and had severe rheumatoid arthritis, sold her paintings for $10 apiece by the roadside outside of her cottage in Marshalltown, Nova Scotia. Her work has seen a surge in popularity since her death in 1970; books, documentaries, a play and even a feature film starring Ethan Hawke have been made about her life.

“Lewis' story is truly unique, having redefined Canadian folk art through her vision and creativity, she ultimately reshaped its perception and appreciation in the Canadian art world,” according to the Loch Gallery team. “Her work embodies the strong, innate drive that artists often experience to create art, particularly highlighting the beauty and simplicity of nature.”

In 2022, one of her paintings, Black Truck, set a new auction record for the artist, selling for $418,000. Painted in 1967, it depicted a truck driving through the countryside and had once been traded for a couple of grilled cheese sandwiches. ■

A historical exhibition featuring Maud Lewis is on view now through Nov. 9 at Loch Gallery in Toronto

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