Statement from Michael Burtch on death of Ken Danby

The following statement on the death of Sault-born artist Ken Danby was released this morning by Michael Burtch, director and curator of the Art Gallery of Algoma.

This SooToday.com file photo shows the world-renowned painter two years ago, with Sarah Henriques Alton at the Art Gallery of Algoma's 25th anniversary celebration.

************************* Ken Danby, who was born and raised in Sault Ste. Marie never forgot his roots.

The reflective realism he is so well known for is a testimony to those roots.

His paintings, drawings and prints are internationally acclaimed and he is justifiably considered one of the masters of our age.

Ken gave back to his country in many ways.

He served on a variety of national arts boards, he was always accessible to the media when commentaries on arts issues were sought, he gave generously to charitable causes and, speaking personally, he was a strong supporter of the Art Gallery of Algoma.

He was the subject of a large watercolour exhibition in 1997 that was organized by the gallery and was scheduled for the spring of 2009 for another large show featuring his northern landscapes.

He was one of the featured guests at the gallery's formal opening and the guest speak to help us celebrate our 25th anniversary.

His loss is tragic, but he has left a great legacy to this country.

- Michael Burtch

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