The Artistic Journey of Robert Lemay
Robert Lemay is a distinguished Canadian artist based in Edmonton who has built an impressive career spanning over 30 years. While primarily known for his floral compositions, Lemay also creates compelling works in other subjects, as evidenced by the featured monochromatic reproduction of a 1959 Vogue magazine cover with Audrey Hepburn.
A self-sustaining working artist, Lemay approaches his craft with dedication and consistency, painting nearly every day for more than three decades. His work demonstrates a meticulous attention to realism that remains poetic while creating immersive visual experiences for viewers, whether capturing the essence of fashion iconography or other subjects that interest him.
Lemay's Exhibition History
With more than 30 solo exhibitions throughout his career, Lemay's work has been showcased in major Canadian cities including Edmonton, Montreal, Toronto, Calgary, and Vancouver, as well as internationally in New York, Milan, London, and the Cotswolds. His exhibition record dates back to 1987, with his first solo show at Woltjen/Udell in Edmonton, and continues through upcoming exhibitions planned for 2025.
His most comprehensive exhibition, "Robert Lemay: 30 Years," was held at Douglas Udell Gallery in Edmonton in 2015, celebrating three decades of his artistic contributions. Other notable exhibitions include "Iconic Women" at Shayne Gallery in Montreal (2016) and "Big Screen TV" at The Front Gallery in Edmonton (2018).
Recognition and Collections of Robert Lemay
Lemay's work has gained significant recognition, appearing in prestigious collections worldwide. His paintings hang in the Canadian Consulates in both New York City and Sydney, Australia, and Shaw Communications has named a room "The Robert Lemay Room" in Shaw Court in downtown Calgary in his honor. Early in his career, he received the Elizabeth Greenshields Foundation Grant in both 1989 and 1990, and he has participated in artist residencies at Graceland University in Iowa (2014) and the Pouch Cove Foundation in Newfoundland (2021).
His work can also be found in the Canada Council Art Bank, Clif Lede Wineries in Yountville, California, Edmonton's City Hall, and numerous private and corporate collections, cementing his legacy as an important figure in contemporary Canadian art.