Celebrated Nova Scotia artist Tom Forrestall dies at age 88

Tom Forrestall, a renowned Nova Scotia artist known for his realist paintings, passed away at the age of 88. His work is celebrated and can be found in major collections across North America and Europe. Ray Cronin, a writer and curator, described Forrestall as an “artist’s artist” who was dedicated to his craft and made a living solely through his art since 1960.

One of Forrestall’s most famous paintings, “Island in the Ice,” is displayed at the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia. This large-scale piece captures Devils Island in Halifax harbour surrounded by ice floes, showcasing his meticulous attention to detail and skill in capturing the essence of his subject matter.

Born in Middleton, N.S., in 1936, Forrestall studied under iconic Canadian painter Alex Colville at Mount Allison University. Along with Mary Pratt and Christopher Pratt, Forrestall was part of a group of artists who developed a unique style of painting rooted in Atlantic Canada. Colville introduced Forrestall to the technique of painting with egg tempera, a method that dates back to the Middle Ages and became a signature element of Forrestall’s work for over 60 years.

Despite Colville’s influence, Cronin noted that Forrestall had a distinct approach to painting, focusing on observation and capturing the world as he saw it. While Colville may have been more inclined to invent scenes, Forrestall remained true to what he observed in his surroundings. Over the years, Forrestall’s paintings have gained recognition and value, with some fetching prices ranging from $25,000 to $75,000 at auctions.

Described as humble and generous, Forrestall was deeply respected within the arts community in Atlantic Canada and Nova Scotia. The Art Gallery of Nova Scotia paid tribute to him, highlighting his ability to draw viewers into his compositions and reveal the beauty in everyday objects and life. With over 100 of Forrestall’s works in its permanent collection, the gallery recognized his significant contributions to the art world.

Forrestall’s legacy as a talented and dedicated artist continues to inspire future generations, showcasing the importance of integrity, perseverance, and staying true to one’s artistic vision. His passing marks the end of an era but leaves behind a body of work that will continue to captivate and inspire audiences for years to come.