Bruce Le Dain R.C.A., Canadian oil on canvas MARCH PATTERN Bromont, 1978, (1928-2000), 12x18, WALTER KLINKHOFF GALLERY AUTHORIZATION
Walter Klinkhoff Gallery, Montreal
Born in Montreal, P.Q. his work was selected in 1936 for the International Children’s Art Exhibition, U.S.A. By 1946 he had enrolled at Sir George Williams University to study fine art. His work was accepted by the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts Spring Shows in 1949, 1952, 1953. From 1953 to 1957 he lived in London, England, where he attended St. Martin’s School of Art. He also studied and travelled in Europe and returned to Canada and settled in Montreal where he was a director of the art department of a public relations firm. He exhibited with the Royal Canadian Academy in 1966 and won First Prize for his paintings shown in the Price Fine Arts Award for the year 1967 and 1969. One of his paintings was presented to the former Prime Minister of Canada, Lester B. Pearson, by the City of Montreal at Expo 67.

quoted from Klinkoff Gallery:

Consistent in Bruce LeDain’s compositions are an interest in atmosphere and light, suggesting categorizing him as an impressionist or a post-impressionist. Painting with a sensibility and respect for the natural environment, in his paintings, he developed a serenity of contemplation. This reflects the intensity of his focus on each work of art.

For over forty years he painted directly from nature, travelling extensively throughout Canada, New York State, the New England Seacoast and in parts of England and the Continent. Most of the artworks offered here are paintings Bruce’s widow kept until her recent passing.

He was elected a member of the RCA in 1984 and became its 25th president in 1991, the first painter as president in 22 years.

LeDain was an active advocate for the preservation of wilderness spaces and parklands. On June 2, 1989, in recognition of his volunteer work in the beautification and development of the grounds of Montreal’s Douglas Hospital, the area was named the "Parc Bruce LeDain Park." On Canada Day, 1989, he received an Award of Merit from the Secretary of State of Canada.