Helen Andersen

Helen Andersen (14 July 1919 – 23 December 1995) was a Canadian artist. While best known for expressionist paintings about Pacific Northwest coast Indigenous peoples, she worked in varied styles. Her subjects were often women, themes expressing her convictions about social justice and strong anti-war sentiments. Like her father, Andersen chose medicine as her profession, graduating as a Registered Nurse in 1940 from the Regina General Hospital School of Nursing.

Awards and recognition

Andersen received a 1992 Lescarbot Award from the Government of Canada, recognizing outstanding contributions to community cultural activities. These included promotion of other artists by mounting group shows, lecturing and demonstrating techniques on television and teaching in her own studio. She served twice as Secretary of the Federation of Canadian Artists; was a member of the Saanich Peninsula Art and Crafts Society; and Board Member of the Community Arts Council (1992).