Clearbrook and Abbotsford Community Libraries will be the permanent homes of two original paintings by Canadian artist, the late William Allister (1919–2008).
These large acrylic-on-canvas works of art are two of 20 paintings valued at $164,000 that were donated by Allister’s estate to Fraser Valley Regional Library (FVRL).
Allister was an avid FVRL customer in Delta. He spent many hours enjoying the books and completing research for his paintings. Near the end of his life he discussed with his wife his wish that the paintings be accessible to the community.
“William took so much joy in his creative expression that he wanted everyone to see it, and what better place than at his library to make his art available to people of all ages and walks of life,” says widow Mona Allister.
The paintings in Allister’s International Collection feature imaginative renderings and symbols highlighting the interconnection of cultures throughout history. Clearbrook Library received Legacy: African Gods, a post-modern homage to Africa’s rich heritage. Abbotsford Community Library received Spirit of Kyoto, which depicts the ancient capital of Japan and its aesthetic quality of architecture.
The remaining 18 paintings can be viewed in various FVRL locations. Reproductions of these paintings can be purchased directly from FVRL. More information can be found at www.fvrl.ca on the Allister Art page found under the Support FVRL tab.