Austin Clarke: Recognizing A Literary Great

ROM unveils a newly commissioned portrait, which honours the legacy of renowned Black Canadian author and civil rights activist Austin Clarke, in Austin Clarke: Recognizing A Literary Great. The portrait, created with funds from the JWL Forster National Portrait Gallery Fund, will be on display in the Sigmund Samuel Gallery of Canada.

Austin Ardinel Chesterfield Clarke (b.1934 – d.2016), immigrated to Canada from Barbados in 1955. He is known for his literary works, many of which examine the residual effects of colonialism and slavery on contemporary race relations, as well as the themes of resilience and hope. Clarke's influential work conveys the significance and impact of Black Canadians in the cultural life of the country.

The portrait, created by Artist Neville Clarke (no relation), will be a welcome addition to the gallery. ROM invites you to reflect on a leader whose quiet power could persuade and inspire.