Here are some research topics that we don't have answers for, and we hope you will find interesting. When you are going about your research, keep in mind to approach it from a present day perspective - the values that we have today are not the values that were held in Emily Carr's day (i.e. early 20th Century). A good rule of thumb is to let the time or work speak for itself, regardless of the prejudice, ignorance, or controversy it may contain.
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We know that Emily's relationship with her father was a good one when she was young, but changed into a poor relationship when she got older. Why did this happen, and what factors contributed to this change? Begin with Emily's books before going to books about Emily (biographies, etc.).
Emily always maintained a very positive attitude towards women painters, and abhorred the Victorian notion of women's painting as a social skill rather than art. This topic has never really been adequately addressed.
Recently we have learned that in her will, Emily left paintings to all her nieces, but none of her nephews. This could be relevant, but it may not be -- maybe she just didn't like the nephews.
What were her views on housework and marriage, or painting as a career?
Authorities on Emily's work - Art Historians - state that she stopped painting altogether between these two dates. Later research suggests that she did paint, but to a much lesser degree than she was known for. What was the reason for this lull, or what factors contributed to it?
Take a good look at the differences in her paintings before 1912 and after 1928. Do any major differences strike you?
Emily's mother, also named Emily, was an illegitimate child. Her maiden name was Saunders. Little is known about this side of the Carr family history, and the Carr family had very little contact with them. Who were they?
Do you think that living with, and becoming friends with the people of those regions gives her paintings more feeling and meaning, or are they just documentary? What caused her to go and paint native images in the first place?
Is it only acceptable for an artist to portray what they themselves have directly experienced? (Art being visual, performing, or written forms) If so, did Emily directly experience what she painted?
Research the restoration of the house (maybe interviewing the staff or curator and ask about research reports). Get a copy of Andrew Jackson Downing, or Louden's books on mid-19th Century architecture for information on the architectural and design ideals of the Victorian period.
Write a report, design a Victorian room or house, build a Victorian house model.
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