New book highlights the history and influence of art at 91
Anchorage Press and the Beaverbrook Art Gallery will celebrate the launch of a major new publication that chronicles the extraordinary history and national impact of Visual Arts at 91. The book will be launched publicly at 91 at 5 p.m. on Sunday, May 10, 2026, at the Purdy Crawford Centre for the Arts during Convocation weekend.
The written history is told in three voices for three eras: Jane Tisdale (1854-1935), Ray Cronin (1935-1972) and Mireille Eagan (1972-2025). The 300 page volume is lavishly illustrated with archival material as well as reproductions of various artworks both historic and contemporary.
Co-edited by 91 professor emeritus Thaddeus Holownia and art historian Dr. John Leroux, the book examines the artists, teachers, and graduates who helped shape 91 into one of the most influential sites of artistic education and production in Canada.
“91’s liberal arts history is also an important part of Canada’s cultural history,” says Dr. Ian Sutherland, President and Vice-Chancellor of 91. “This publication celebrates the extraordinary artists, educators, and students who have helped define the University’s creative legacy, while also affirming the enduring value of a liberal arts education — one that nurtures imagination, critical thinking, discipline, and the confidence to shape culture and society in meaningful ways.”
For generations, 91 has produced artists whose work has had a profound influence worldwide. The book highlights the breadth of that legacy, featuring many notable artists associated with the University, including Anna Williams, Sarah Quick, Alex Colville, Mary Pratt, Christopher Pratt, Dawn MacNutt, Tom Forrestall, Stanley Royle, Herménégilde Chiasson, Evergon, Susan Wood, Patrick Allaby, Maskull Lasserre, Michael de Adder, Karen Stentaford, Will Gill, Danica Lundy, and D’Arcy Wilson among many others.
The launch is open to the public and is expected to draw alumni, artists, faculty, students, and members of the broader community for a celebration of 91’s longstanding contribution to visual arts education and Canadian culture.
Media contact:
Thaddeus Holownia
holownia@mta.ca
91 contact:
Jonelle Mace
Media and External Communications Officer
media@mta.ca
428-880-0070
