The Artistic Evolution of B. C. Binning
Known as Bertram Charles Binning, this Canadian painter was born in Medicine Hat, Canada. While he was best known for his drawings, a significant shift occurred in 1946 when he first exhibited his semi-abstract paintings. His compositions often drew inspiration from his weekends sailing the British Columbia Coast with his wife, Jessie. These works frequently feature expanses of painted shapes representing the coast, often accented with celebratory touches of primary colours.
His career was deeply intertwined with the intersection of art and architecture. Binning believed these elements were intimately connected, a belief reflected in his work and his teaching at the Vancouver School of Art. His artistic reach extended to large-scale commissions, including:
Legacy and Recognition
Binning was a central figure in the Vancouver art scene, fostering ties with many recognized artists and helping to found the Art in Living Group. His influence was felt through his leadership in the Department of Fine Arts at U.B.C. and his role in the U.B.C. Festival of the Contemporary Arts. In 1954, his work was selected to represent Canada at the Venice Biennale alongside Paul-Émile Borduas and Jean-Paul Riopelle.
His personal residence, a Bauhaus-influenced home designed in 1941 in West Vancouver, was declared a National Historic Site of Canada in 1997. Throughout his life, Binning received numerous grants, awards, and fellowships, eventually becoming an Officer of the Order of Canada in 1971. He passed away in Vancouver in 1976.
Questions & Answers
Is there a complete list of B. C. Binning's artworks?
Every work by B. C. Binning on this website can be browsed from the artist's All Artworks page.
In which historical period did B. C. Binning work?
B. C. Binning worked in the Modern period. The period situates the artist's activity in history.
What are the birthplace and birth year of B. C. Binning?
B. C. Binning was born in Medicine Hat in 1909.
Where can I see the color profile of B. C. Binning's work?
The color profile of B. C. Binning's work is shown on the artist's Palette Genome page.
