Early Modernist 20th Century Canadian Artist Dorothy Wilma Wardell (1909-1983), Wonderfully Atmospheric Landscape, Pastel on Paper, Female Figure by Birch Trees

A serene modernist landscape in pastel on paper by 20th century Canadian artist Dorothy Wardell (1909-1983.  Born in Hamilton Ontario, Dorothy had a love and natural talent for both painting and sculpture. She studied at the Ontario College of Art under Manly McDonald and later studied at the Art Students’ League in New York City. By the time Dorothy was in her 30’s some of her works were selected by Hallmark Cards for the “Canadian Artists Series”.  The greeting cards boasted her beautiful bold winter sceneries of horse drawn carriages, colourful landscapes, and playful children. In 1944 she completed a 12 by 8 ft religious work of the Crucifixion as a commission for St. Peter’s Church, Toronto.

This wonderfully atmospheric pastel on paper depicts a young woman standing quietly beside slender birch trees beneath a luminous blue sky. The overall very cohesive composition is characterized by simplified forms, soft colour harmonies, and a contemplative mood. Wardell’s work reflects early modernist and Post-Impressionist influences, emphasizing flattened space and decorative line. The textured pastel surface adds warmth and intimacy to the scene, while the gentle contrast between cool sky and warm garment creates visual balance. Signed lower right and presented in a classic “Simpson’s” frame with a mat.

Dorothy was amongst the groundbreaking group of women in art history of Canada. She was active in the Arts and Letters Club, and was a member of the Ontario Society of Artists (OSA) and the Roval Canadian Academy(RCA). At a time when female artists were only just being recognized for their work, Ms Wardell’s paintings were featured at the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts and the Art Gallery of Toronto (now AGO) alongside members of the Group of Seven and Canadian Group of Painters, her peers in her field.

Dimensions: Image: height 11.5″ x width 8″, Frame: height 19″ x width 14″ x depth 1.0 “