Lewis Parker

Lewis Parker (January 16, 1926 – March 27, 2011 ) was a Canadian illustrator, painter and muralist. An important and distinguished historical painter, Parker specialized in historical scenes and North American native cultures. He was also a children's book illustrator, and his work is featured in educational texts used across Canada. He made major contributions toward interpreting and promoting the understanding of the history of Canada. He was born in Toronto, Ontario.

Early life and training Born in Toronto in 1926, Lewis Parker was the eldest of four born to Gilbert and Dorothy Parker. From an early age, Parker showed passion, determination and discipline in teaching himself to draw. So focused on drawing was Lewis that his mother, concerned for his social life, would invite his schoolmates over after school, hoping this would encourage Lewis to play. Lewis responded by sketching favourite cartoon characters for his delighted peers. By the age of 12, Lewis had amassed dozens of sketchbooks filled with people and storybook characters.

In 1939, Parker attended Central Technical School in Toronto. Ever self-motivated, he applied his disciplined approach to all studies. Seldom openly defiant, Parker submitted his own versions of assignments, always far more detailed than required. Between 1947 and 1956, he formed a commercial art firm with Bill Sherman and Gordon and Norman Laws called Sherman, Laws and Parker, a business focusing on visual arts in advertising. was a series of 36 paintings depicting the life and culture of Canada's Huron Natives.

Between 1970 and 1974, Parker, again in collaboration with Gerald Lazare, created the 'Indians of Canada' series for the Wildlife Federation. The National Film Board of Canada then commissioned Lazare and Parker to create an illustrative series for film work on the Beluga Whale and the Plains Indians.

Between 1980 and 1982, Lewis began his journey into in-depth historical paintings with Parks Canada, depicting key scenes in Maritime history. The first, set in 1758, was entitled "The Expulsion of the Acadians from Prince Edward Island". This painting, commissioned specifically to be used in a film presentation, has been requested for reproduction in part or in full on numerous occasions .

Recognition Canada Post: On 4 April 1975 Canada Post issued 'Ceremonial Dress' designed by Georges Beaupré, based on a painting by Lewis Parker (artist) of a ceremonial costume of the Kutchin tribe /Gwich'in people. The 8¢ stamps are perforated 12.5 mm and were printed by Ashton-Potter Limited.

Royal Canadian Mint: Lewis Parker's artwork, "The Founding of Louisbourg", was featured on the 1995 Royal Canadian Mint| Royal Canadian Mint numismatic coins (20th century) $100 coin. 16,916 coins with Parker's artwork were issued.