Dawn McArthur is a unique visual storyteller and wilderness artist, known for her evocative acrylic paintings that capture the vibrant essence of the Canadian wilderness.
McArthur’s work has been inspired by our stunning landscapes, where she finds inspiration in the wild beauty that surrounds her. Through her expressive paintings, McArthur celebrates “The Wild” with playful optimism, reflecting her personal outlook on life. Each piece is a testament to her belief in the power of art to connect people to the natural world, both consciously and subconsciously.
McArthur has recently ventured both physically and artistically to the High Arctic. Her new work calls attention not only to the Arctic’s stunning landscapes and wildlife, but also to its fragile ecosystem which has a far reaching impact on our planet and humankind.
“Storytelling and symbolism are key components to my art,” says McArthur. “My paintings are about more than just the image—they are an invitation to reflect on our relationship with nature.”
After decades guiding students in the world of art and nature, Dawn embarked on her own creative journey exploring the wilderness and its wild inhabitants. Influenced by renowned artists such as Seurat, Morisseau, Klimt, and Franz Marc, McArthur’s style merges realism and surrealism, using bold, black lines to outline areas to add energy, balance, and focus to her work. The distinct brush strokes within her landscapes contrast with the realistic depiction of wildlife, bringing an element of surrealism that invites the viewer to see the natural world in a new light.
Through storytelling, colour-play and composition, McArthur creates harmony and balance that invites the viewer to experience the Arctic, embracing its vastness and awe-inspiring landscapes of sea ice, mountains, big skies and frozen tundra. The stories embedded within each painting reflect McArthur’s personal mandate: to instill a sense of wonder and a desire to protect our natural world.
Dawn is an award winning artist and an elected member of the Society of Canadian Artists (SCA), with paintings in collections in North America and Europe.
In the Papers…
FAQ: Framing and Shipping