Family, friends, and notable individuals are honoring the memory of esteemed Saskatchewan artist David Thauberger, who passed away on Thursday evening in Regina at the age of 78. Thauberger, born in 1948 in the town of Holdfast, dedicated his life to art, influencing multiple generations and adorning galleries and public structures nationwide with his creations.
Former associates describe the celebrated painter and sculptor as instrumental in shaping Saskatchewan’s presence in the Canadian art scene. Belinda Harrow, a former colleague and senior consultant at the Saskatchewan Arts Permanent Collection (SK Arts), noted Thauberger’s focus on depicting modernist and brutalist buildings that mirrored the province’s evolving culture as urban centers and the Prairies expanded.
Don Thauberger, the late artist’s brother, shared that David, driven by a desire for broader opportunities beyond Saskatchewan, pursued studies in ceramics at the University of Saskatchewan’s Regina campus, culminating in a bachelor of fine arts degree in 1971. After further education in the United States, David returned to Canada, eventually settling back in Saskatchewan to pursue his artistic career.
Harrow highlighted Thauberger’s enduring connection with the Saskatchewan Arts Permanent Collection and his profound influence on the province’s artistic landscape. His vibrant works often depicted agricultural themes, reflecting his rural upbringing in Holdfast, alongside cultural landmarks like grain elevators and traditional buildings.
Known for his bold use of colors inspired by the pop art movement of the 1960s and ’70s, Thauberger was revered for his wealth of knowledge and continuous exploration of art history and culture. He maintained personal relationships with fellow artists, offering guidance and feedback, which held significant weight due to his stature in the province’s art community.
Thauberger’s legacy includes his induction into the Order of Canada in 2008, receiving the Saskatchewan Order of Merit in 2012, and earning the Lieutenant Governor’s Saskatchewan Artist Award in 2009. His niece, Althea Thauberger, now a professor at the University of British Columbia, credits him for inspiring her artistic journey, particularly through his poignant portrayals of the family farmhouse in Holdfast.
Leaving behind a substantial body of work showcased in various galleries across Canada, including Slate Fine Art Gallery, Mackenzie Art Gallery, and the Canada Council Art Bank, Thauberger’s impact extends beyond his artistry. Premier Scott Moe acknowledged Thauberger’s significant contribution to capturing Saskatchewan’s essence, emphasizing his role as a mentor and influencer to emerging artists.
Thauberger’s niece emphasized his legacy of generosity and inspiration, highlighting his enduring influence on subsequent generations of artists.