by Roy Bernardi
Joanne Tod (b. 1953) is a renowned Canadian artist whose painting invites a deeper contemplation of the complex interplay between subject and form. Her meticulous technique and choice of color evoke a serious examination of the themes she explores. Each piece serves not merely as an aesthetic object but as a commentary on contemporary issues, urging the viewer to engage thoughtfully with the visual narrative presented. The strength of her work lies in its ability to resonate on multiple levels, blending personal expression with broader societal reflections. As Tod continues to push the boundaries of her artistic practice, her contributions to the art world remain significant and profound.
Tod has become recognized and acclaimed in the contemporary art scene for her figurative artworks derived from photographs, employing irony to confront stereotypes, reveal vulnerabilities, and disturb preconceived notions regarding women, race, and social status. Few artists depict the complexities of the female experience as skillfully as Canadian artist Joanne Tod. She employs her expertise to amaze audiences by juxtaposing female subjects with meticulously crafted representational images. Tod was one of the trailblazing female artists to tackle women’s issues long before society recognized their significance in the 1970s. Her work is remarkably powerful, and her talent is undeniable. What she does is choose the images that are staples of visual culture and then, by a very subtle twist, manipulates the context of the image. In Tod’s practice, the use of irony serves as a means to reframe what we see, and to draw attention to the things people do and the society in which they exist.
Her work currently on view at Caviar 20, located at 647 Dupont Street, Toronto, will run until November 29, 2025. This must-see show serves as a mini retrospective, highlighting works from various stages of her career. It includes an early piece titled “In the Kitchen” from 1975, created with acrylic on canvas, as well as a portrait of Queen Elizabeth II titled “Queens” from 1996, rendered in oil on canvas. Other notable works featured are “Morning at the MET” from 2007, also an oil on canvas, alongside more recent pieces such as “Beaver Snail” and “La Banque,” both from 2025 and executed in oil on canvas. Additionally, several smaller works like “5 O’Clock EST” from 2025, created with watercolour on paper, are included in the exhibition.
Tod is regarded as one of Canada’s leading portrait artists, a master of figurative painting, capturing the prominent figures of the nation. Her style, characterized by vibrant brush strokes and a soft palette, is immediately identifiable. Few artists have the capability to showcase the finest attributes of their subjects as proficiently as Tod does.
Tod, has enjoyed a career that few artists could ever aspire to. Her creations are cherished in every major museum across Canada, including the National Gallery of Canada in Ottawa, the Art Gallery of Ontario in Toronto, and the Musée des beaux-arts de Montréal to name a few.
Joanne Tod is the only living artist remaining with us whose works are included in the book “Masterpieces of Canadian Art From The National Gallery Of Canada”; David Burnett, Published by Hurtig Publishers, Edmonton, Alberta, 1990.