André Lapine

The Agnes Jamieson Gallery collection includes over one hundred works by André Lapine (1866-1952), one of Canada's foremost artist. Born in Russia (in the area that is now Latvia), Lapine trained with Professor Rose from the Imperial Acadamie of Petrograd. He gained further training in Paris and then traveled to through France, where he reported to have painted nearly fifty commissioned portraits, and ended in Holland. Here he was accepted into a prestigious group, St. Lucius Society, by Piet Mondrian. In 1901 he married and the couple immigrated to Canada in 1905 to northern Manitoba; working the land for one year. After this they went to Toronto, where Lapine quickly became a leading artist. He worked for Brigden's Ltd. where he was known for his ability to render lace and fur for images in the Eaton's catalogue. In 1909 Lapine was accepted into the Ontario Society of Artists and in 1919 to the Royal Canadian Academy of Arts. Lapine's paintings were very popular. He was described in the media as the best illustrator of horses in North America. He was society's “Gentle Cavalier” and was part of the centennial exhibition to the Tate in London England as well as having his work accepted into a number of public art galleries across Canada.

He visited Minden as many of the well-known artists of the day did. Frank Welch, the town Reeve, was friends with Lapine, taking care of him in his final year. Welch acquired 42 of Lapine's paintings during this time, which he bequeathed to the town of Minden. Dr. Jamieson knew this was a wonderful opportunity for the community and working with volunteers and keen determination, ensured a public gallery was created to properly house and showcase this collection.

Lapine Tour

Join us on the Lapine Lap; a glimpse into the life and times of Andre Lapine, which spans continents, the heights of Toronto's art society, and quiet back roads. It is full of life and friendly characters every step of the way.

Learn more about The Lapine Lap Tour.