We Canadians live with snow in more ways than one. The Inuit have many names that describe all the different kinds of the white stuff.

However, we do tend to have a liking for snowy scenes in the framed artworks on our walls. When I visit my appraisal customers’ homes, I am amazed at the influence of snow in their artistic tastes. Not only do artists paint snowy scenes, we actually buy this art!

Why are we so enamored with pictures that include snow? Maybe it is because we sort of love the stuff? And have learned to live with it and embrace its challenges.

I have noted a true lack of sunny paintings from warmer climes such as the Caribbean and Mexico.

Many Canadian artists have staked their fortunes on icy scenes. The painters in the Group of Seven are examples of this, and others like Graham Norwell, Ernest Dalton and Allen Sapp.

Quebec artists by the hundreds have also been inspired producing works about skating, hockey, good old maple syrup shacks, and frozen waterfalls.

I cannot see a day when all this wonderful Canadian art will go to the great recycling depot in the sky. Maybe some, however, will show up in antiques shops and Value Village.

In the meantime, pull the drapes and snuggle up to a roaring fire and admire the frozen glow of your snowy paintings.

Peter S. Blundell, AA, is an independent art and antiques appraiser, consultant and lecturer.
Visit www.blundellartandantiques.com.

Painting by Ernest Dalton, sight size is 20” x 25”. Approximate value: $8,500 at auction.
– photo courtesy Peter Blundell