University of Saskatchewan College of Agriculture and Bioresources - Kenderdine Art Gallery

Kenderdine Art Gallery

Kenderdine Art Gallery celebrated its official opening October 25, 1991. Augustus Frederick Lafosse (Gus) Kenderdine began the University Art Camp at Emma Lake in 1936, the precursor to the Emma Lake Kenderdine Campus, a bequest was donated to the University of Saskatchewan by his daughter, Mrs. May Beamish, and initialized the formation of the Kenderdine Art Gallery which has a permanent collection started by Dr. Murray, as well as ongoing exhibits.

Gus Kenderdine:Pioneer Artist

March 31, 1870 to August 3, 1947

It was the stories of the Barr colonists which led Augustus Kenderdine to bring his family to Lashburn, Saskatchewan in 1908. Already recognized in England and on the Continent for his abilities as a landscape and portrait artist, Gus Kenderdine had planned to stay only the three years needed to prove up the homestead. But he loved this land with its vast expanses, its ever-changing sky and glorious sunsets, and, in particular, its northern lakes and forests. He stayed for a lifetime.

Gus Kenderdine was a true visionary. He became the first Professor of Art and Head of the Department of Art at the University of Saskatchewan, teaching in both Regina and Saskatoon. Not only did he continue to share his joy in the natural world through painting, he dreamed of giving others the opportunity to develop their skill in that setting. The Murray Point Art School, now known as the Kenderdine Campus of the University of Saskatchewan, was the result of his dedication and perseverance. Hundreds of artists from across North America and beyond have been inspired, and, in turn, enriched the lives of others through sharing in this legacy.

It is with humility and gratitude that we pay tribute to the life and work of Gus Kenderdine, pioneer artist.