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."
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PMO Press Office (613) 957-5555
