Before joining the abstract collective Painters Eleven in 1953, Oscar Cahén had already built a successful career as a publishing illustrator. He maintained an active illustration practice even as his painting increasingly moved toward abstraction. Known for his sharp observation and expressive style, Cahén became one of Canada’s most sought-after illustrators of the 1950s. This exhibition presents rarely seen illustrations from the Permanent Collection, revealing Cahén’s ability to craft vivid scenes that capture humour, empathy, and the complexities of human experience.
Exhibition
Stories in Ink: Illustrations by Oscar Cahén
June 13, 2026 – January 3, 2027
Oscar Cahén (Canadian, b. Denmark, 1916-1956); Molly Morgan; c. 1955; ink and watercolour on illustration board; Gift of Harold Town, 1971
Upcoming Events
Talks & Tours
Oscar Cahén: Young in Canada
Jun 18, 2026, 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Join us to learn about Oscar Cahén’s early career in Canada as an illustrator. Guest lecturer Jaleen Grove is a Canadian artist and art historian whose research focuses on the history of illustration in the United States and Canada, illustration research, and periodical studies. She has conducted extensive research on Canadian illustrators and magazines, including […]
Special Events
Summer Exhibitions Opening: Stephen Andrews, Oliver Husain, and Austin Henderson
Jun 13, 2026, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
It’s summer at the RMG! We have five wonderful new exhibitions to share with you, including solo exhibitions with Stephen Andrews, Oliver Husain, and emerging artist in residence, Austin Henderson. Come celebrate with us! Curatorial and artist remarks will be delivered at 1:30pm followed by three artist-led exhibitions tours. Refreshments served. Also freshly on view from […]