A woman reads a book on a sofa

Lisa Thibodeau

Installation view of Helen McNicoll: An Impressionist Journey. National Gallery of Canada, Ottawa, May 8, 2026 – October 12, 2026. Photo: NGC

Rediscovering Helen McNicoll, one of Canada’s most accomplished female painters

For decades, conversations about Canadian art have largely centred on a handful of familiar names. This summer, however, the National Gallery of Canada is turning its focus to another influential figure: Helen McNicoll.
By Lisa Thibodeau
Installation view of Helen McNicoll: An Impressionist Journey. National Gallery of Canada, Ottawa, May 8, 2026 – October 12, 2026. Photo: NGC