Trent University Mourns the Death of Mary Pratt

The Trent University community is saddened to learn of the passing of Mary Pratt, one of Canada’s most eminent and beloved artists, Trent honorary degree recipient, and Companion of the Order of Canada.

Trent University presented Ms. Pratt with an honorary Doctor of Laws degree, the University’s highest honour, in 2009, for her internationally acclaimed achievements in contemporary realist art. Upon acceptance of her honorary degree, Ms. Pratt made an apt gift to the University, a lithograph called “Graduation Dress.” The donated piece, measuring 30” x 28 ½“ framed, is currently on display at Traill College for the Trent community to enjoy. 

Described as a visual poet of femaleness, Ms. Pratt’s work is featured in galleries across Canada and the United States. For her contributions to the field, she has received many prestigious honours, including: the Ontario College of Art Fellowship Award; Newfoundland and Labrador Arts Council Hall of Honour; and Companion of the Order of Canada. She has also received honorary doctorates from multiple Canadian universities and served on various boards, committees and task forces.

Below is an excerpt from her obituary in the Globe and Mail:

In the end, Mary Pratt, who died on Tuesday (August 14) at the age of 83, did have time to paint, and paint extraordinarily well. Her luminous canvases shifted photorealism into a deep engagement with everyday life, into what Ms. Pratt called “these tiny little truths” embedded in light and fruit, line and meat.

The University extends heartfelt sympathies to Ms. Pratt’s family and friends, and to all who knew her at Trent University.