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John McKee, born in Sudbury, Ontario, in 1941, is a distinguished landscape painter whose work captures the essence of Western Canada's diverse terrains. McKee completed his Bachelor of Fine Arts at the University of Alberta and pursued his Master of Fine Arts in Arizona, graduating in 1969. His early career involved teaching drawing, painting, sculpture, and art history at universities in Arizona, Ohio, and Georgia.

In the late 1970s, McKee returned to Calgary, dedicating himself to painting full-time. He has since exhibited extensively in Toronto, Calgary, and across Canada. McKee's work is renowned for its depiction of the vast and varied landscapes of Western Canada, from the deep Prairies and the Foothills of Alberta to the majestic Rocky Mountains and the West Coast. His unique technique combines richly shadowed transparencies with detailed, expressive brushwork, effectively capturing the region's panoramic beauty in all seasons.

John McKee's talent was highlighted in the 1985 Edmonton Art Gallery Exhibition, where curator Russell Bingham praised McKee's "restrained thoughtfulness and unique visual intelligence." McKee's ability to depict deep space with a logical order that remains engaging is a testament to his mastery.

In 2012, the Art Gallery of Alberta's "State of Nature" exhibition featured several of McKee's works, underscoring his role in the tradition of modern landscape painting. His approach aligns more with Realism and Impressionism, drawing comparisons to Monet and Pissarro. McKee emphasizes the medium of painting, focusing on the individual brushstrokes that compose his works.

John McKee now resides in Creston, British Columbia, where he continues to paint and contribute to Canada's rich artistic heritage. His works remain influential, celebrated for their ability to capture the spirit and grandeur of Western Canada's landscapes.

John McKee's lifelong dedication to landscape painting has cemented his status as a leading Canadian artist. His exhibitions across Canada and the USA showcase his significant contributions to contemporary art, reflecting a deep connection to the natural world and a mastery of his craft.