Earth, Hell and Heaven in the Art of William Kurelek

William Kurelek is one of the most important and original painters of Canada. Many of his works now are housed in the major galleries of Canada and internationally.

In Earth Hell & Heaven in the Art of William Kurelek Isle Friesen arguest that the purpose of Kurelek’s art was to save souls. Kurelek emphasized hell because it helf out a greater attraction to humankind, while at the same time providing an image of an open door leading from damnation to salvation. In this sense, as the author herself claims, Kurelek’s work becomes a visual “Divine Commedia.”

Ilse Friesen is a Professor of Art and Art History at Wilfred Laurier University