Maud Lewis was a renowned Canadian folk artist whose colorful and joyous paintings of rural Nova Scotia life have become iconic in Canadian art history. Despite suffering from severe rheumatoid arthritis and living in poverty for much of her life, Lewis developed a distinctive, highly recognizable style marked by bright colors, simplified forms, and an unwavering sense of optimism. 

Painting from her tiny home in Marshalltown, Nova Scotia, Lewis depicted scenes of horse-drawn carriages, boats, winter landscapes, and cheerful animals, all rendered with a charming naïveté. Her work gained widespread recognition in the 1960s, and collectors began seeking out her paintings, which she sold from her roadside home for just a few dollars at the time. 

Today, Maud Lewis’ legacy is stronger than ever, with her paintings fetching record prices at auction. Her original home, covered in her painted decorations, has been preserved, and now resides in the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia as a testament to her enduring influence. Lewis’ life story continues to inspire books, films, and exhibitions, celebrating her as one of Canada’s most beloved folk artists.