Bertha Cunningham is a Western Manitoban artist who has studied at the Banff School of Fine Arts several summers and has painted in Winnipeg for periods under the guidance of members of the School of Fine Art. She paints mainly landscapes. (1969 inventory)
Crazing of varnish all over image, deeper alligator cracking in top middle causing distortions of paint surface (area 6 X 19 cm TL). Some paint abrasion along the frame on L side. Painting needs cleaning from dust. Frame has some minor cracks; as well
Inscription: William Davies, Industrialist. b.1831 in England, d. 1921 in Toronto. Generous benefactor of Brandon College.
Dimensions
70 X 54 cm
Size Overall
114 X 98 cm
Medium
oil
Condition
Scratch on surface in area c.. 5cm from BL corner. Minor scratches on R side of image. Frame has cracks in many areas, as well as a loss of plaster in lower R area, c.. 3.5cm. Mild loss of paint on the right inside frame arm, next to the painting sur
Primary Support
canvas
Secondary Support
no backing support for canvas; frame - wood and plaster with gild
Inscription on back: Robert Mancuso, a member of the Sioux Valley band, residing in Brandon, MB, has been developing his art since childhood. It is only recently, however, that he's been working in the native style, reflecting the spirituality that comes from the native view of things. He has undertaken native art classes at Brandon University that he says has greatly influenced his direction. He says it is like stepping through a new door into a world full of wonders waiting to be explored through his art. Contemporary native art is exciting and challenging to work in. He says 'it always has a horizon'. This picture, depicted in ink, represents the four elements showing the sun as fire, buffalo as earth, eagle as wind, and the lines as water. He has tried to convey the feeling of the spiritual force as it moves, with boldness across the vastness of the plains.
