ROBERT J DANIEL
Robert J. Daniel: A Journey Through the Arts
Robert J. Daniel, born in Stafford, England in 1944, embarked on a remarkable artistic journey that spanned continents and disciplines. At the age of two, his family relocated to Canada, where his artistic inclinations were nurtured in his father’s ornamental sculpture workshop. This early exposure to craftsmanship laid the foundation for his future endeavors in the arts.
Robert's artistic path took a significant turn when he visited the studios of prominent contemporary Canadian artists, including members of the Group of Seven in Toronto. These experiences ignited his passion for becoming a multidisciplinary artist.
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In 1962, Robert pursued architectural design training and was soon entrusted with creating an architectural perspective drawing of the Castle Frank subway station in Toronto. This opportunity marked the beginning of his professional artistic career. From 1965 to 1968, he received a scholarship to study at the National Theatre School in Montreal. This education propelled him into numerous design contracts for theater, ballet, and opera across Canada, laying the groundwork for his later success.
Throughout his career, Robert participated in various exhibitions and received awards for his stage designs. His expertise in set design led him to become a member of the Associated Designers of Canada. A significant milestone in Robert's career came in 1972 when he contributed to the Fortress of Louisbourg restoration project. His work on the research and creation of artifacts, replicas, and ornaments for the chapel’s reconstruction, in collaboration with Jean Palardy, earned him recognition from the "Companions de France" as a master carver and an "Honorary Member." He also received commendations from Canadian Prime Minister Pierre E. Trudeau. During his time in Cape Breton, Robert taught and conducted numerous creative workshops in sculpture and wood carving, leaving a lasting impact on the local artisan community.
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From 1973 to 1975, Robert collaborated in Paris as a set designer and scenic artist for the opera-scale production of "Goodbye Mr. Freud," working with avant-garde artists like Jerôme Savary, founder of Le Grand Magic Circus, Copi, Arrabal, and Michel Lebois.
The 1980s marked a shift in Robert's focus towards sculpture and painting. His works were exhibited in solo and group shows across Toronto, Montreal, Victoria, Seattle, and Los Angeles. The 1990s saw him in Toulouse and the Pyrenees, where he was influenced by Art Brut. Back in Canada, he worked on projects for private corporations, integrating murals, paintings, and sculptures into architectural settings.
Robert's recent works have been showcased at the Galerie d' Arts Contemporain in Montreal, and he participated in the 11th Toronto International Art Fair with Engine Gallery. His extensive exhibition history includes:
· Galerie d'Arts Contemporain (2011-2013, Montreal, Canada)
· Galerie d'Arts Contemporain ("Trends in Canadian Abstraction," 2010, Montreal,Canada)
· 11th Toronto International Art Fair (2010, Toronto, Canada)
· Engine Gallery (2009, Toronto, Canada)
· Galerie Delisle (2008, Toronto, Canada)
· Galerie d'Arts Contemporain (2007-2008, Montreal, Canada)
· John B. Aird Gallery (2000-2003, Toronto, Canada)
· Canadian Sculpture Centre (2000-2003, Toronto, Canada)
· La Galerie Stock I Arts (1995, Toulouse, France)
· Galerie Jour de Fête (1993, Cahors, France)
· John D. Ramsay-Contemporary Art (1992, Vancouver, Canada)
· Salon La Raffinage (1990, Vancouver, Canada)
· International Art Exposition (1989, Los Angeles, USA)
· Gallery Q (1989, Venice, USA)
· Gallery Daniel ("88 Canadian Sculpture," 1988, Montreal, Canada)
· Royal Victoria Hospital-Gallery (1987, Montreal, Canada)
· Galerie Don Stewart (1986, Montreal, Canada)
· Weller Gallery (1986, Montreal, Canada)
· Galerie Joyce Goldman (1985, Montreal, Canada)
· Del Bello Gallery (1985, Toronto, Canada)
· Canadian Contemporary Design "Virtu" (1984, Toronto, Canada)
· Here and Now Gallery (1982, Toronto, Canada)
· Doric Gallery (1982, Toronto, Canada)
· Queen Mother Café (1982, Toronto, Canada)
· Tate Gallery (1982, Toronto, Canada)
· McLaughlin Gallery (1982, Toronto, Canada)
· Nancy Poole Gallery (1982, Toronto, Canada)
· Moore Gallery (1981, Hamilton, Canada)
· College Park Gallery (1980, Toronto, Canada)
· Galerie Idée (1980, Toronto, Canada)
· C.I.B.C. Bank of Commerce (1980, Toronto, Canada)
· Lavrov-Tanenbaum Gallery (1979, Toronto, Canada)
· Tate Gallery (1976, Toronto, Canada)
· Galerie Nikon (1975, Paris, France)
· Mother’s Café (1974, Paris, France)
· The Grand Magic Circus (1974, Paris, France)
· Louisbourg Institute Collection (1973, Louisbourg, Canada)
Robert's contributions to the arts have been significant, leaving an indelible mark on the artistic community. His works evoke a stirring sincerity, reflecting his rich and varied journey through the arts. His life story is a testament to his dedication, talent, and the profound impact he has had on the world of art.
