PHILLIPS, Walter J.
Walter J. Phillips (1884–1963) was a pioneering Canadian printmaker renowned for his exquisite color woodcuts, which blended traditional Japanese techniques with Western aesthetics. Born in England, Phillips emigrated to Canada in 1913, where he became a leading figure in the development of printmaking as a fine art form in the country.
His prints are distinguished by their delicate lines, refined colour palettes, and serene depictions of the Canadian landscape—particularly the lakes of Manitoba and the Rocky Mountains. Drawing inspiration from Japanese ukiyo-e masters, Phillips adapted the mokuhanga (woodblock) technique to depict North American subjects with a lyrical clarity that became his hallmark.
Phillips was instrumental in legitimizing printmaking in Canada’s art institutions and played a key role in art education through his teaching at the Banff School of Fine Arts. His work remains influential, housed in major collections such as the National Gallery of Canada and the Glenbow Museum.
