July 13, 2002
Ottawa, Ontario

Prime Minister Jean Chrétien issued this statement on the news of the death today of Canadian photographer, Yousuf Karsh:

"I was deeply saddened today to learn of the death of Yousuf Karsh, one of Canada`s most accomplished and indeed, most renowned artists.

Mr. Karsh is recognized internationally for photographing some of the world`s most famous faces. His portraits which include Sir Winston Churchill, Albert Einstein, and Fidel Castro, are considered to be some of the world's most celebrated photographs. It is widely accepted that his 1941 portrait of Winston Churchill in the House of Commons brought him international prominence.

Born in Turkish Armenia in 1908, Yousuf Karsh and his family later fled their country as refugees and at the age of 16, he was sent by his parents to Sherbrooke, Quebec to live with his uncle. After studying with some of the photographic greats, Mr. Karsh set up his humble studio on Sparks Street in Ottawa and here his career flourished and grew onto the international stage.

Mr. Karsh will be remembered for his innate ability to capture the human spirit through the lens of his camera. A cultural icon, the portraits of Yousuf Karsh will forever be considered some of the most important photographs of our time.

Every occasion I had to meet him was a privilege. Aline joins me in offering, on behalf of all Canadians, our most sincere and heartfelt condolences to Yousuf Karsh`s family and many friends."

- 30 -

PMO Press Office (613) 957-5555