Emily Carr (December 13, 1871 – March 2, 1945) was born in Victoria, British Columbia. Inspired by the majestic landscapes and Indigenous villages of British Columbia, Carr became a pivotal figure in Canadian art. Her profound connection to the region's natural beauty and cultural heritage is evident in her work.

Carr's early education in art began at the California School of Design in San Francisco. Her travels to London and France further honed her skills, exposing her to the latest artistic trends. Influenced by Fauvism and Post-Impressionism, Carr developed a unique style characterized by vibrant colours and bold forms.

In 1898, Carr began visiting Indigenous communities on Vancouver Island, drawing inspiration from their art and culture. Her 1912 sketching trip to Haida Gwaii and the Upper Skeena River produced some of her most iconic works.  These paintings reflect her deep respect for the Indigenous peoples and their traditions.

Carr's work gained recognition when she was invited to exhibit at the National Gallery of Canada in 1927. Her association with the Group of Seven, particularly Lawren Harris, cemented her status as a leading modernist painter in Canada. Her unique ability to blend Indigenous motifs with her interpretation of the West Coast landscape made her a national treasure.

Apart from painting, Carr was an accomplished writer. Her first book, "Klee Wyck" (1941), won the Governor General's Literary Award for non-fiction. Her writings, known for their vivid prose and candid reflections, continue to be celebrated.

Carr's later years were marked by declining health, but her creative spirit never waned. She continued to paint and write, leaving a lasting impact on Canadian art and literature. Emily Carr passed away in 1945 in her hometown of Victoria, but her legacy lives on. Today, her work is celebrated in galleries and museums across Canada, and she is revered as a Canadian icon.

Emily Carr's contributions to Canadian culture have been widely recognized. She has been designated a National Historic Person, and her childhood home in Victoria is a National Historic Site of Canada. Her name endures in various honours, including the minor planet 5688 Kleewyck.

Emily Carr's artistic vision and dedication to capturing the spirit of British Columbia's landscapes and Indigenous heritage have cemented her place as a central figure in Canadian art history.