In Memory of Tannis M. Richardson
Tannis M. Richardson at the opening of the George & Tannis Richardson Collection of Inuit Sculpture exhibition, 2016. Photo: Eric Au
Through her time, effort and generosity, Tannis raised funds for beloved community landmarks that welcome everyone to WAG-Qaumajuq. In 1971/72, she was instrumental in supporting the realization of the WAG building’s distinctive revolving stone door, designed by Gustavo Da Roza.
Nearly fifty years later, in 2020, she funded the commission of Time to Play, a monumental sculpture by acclaimed Inuit artist Abraham Anghik Ruben that now greets visitors to Qaumajuq and passers-by. Tannis was a steadfast champion for the building of Qaumajuq, with the Richardson Family and Foundation donating over $2 million to the capital campaign. Here’s a video from when Time to Play was unveiled for the public.
Her impact extends further still into the Gallery’s collection. In the early sixties, Tannis served on a committee to acquire 11 paintings by leading Canadian artist David Milne, and organized a special showing to raise funds for the purchase. She was a passionate advocate for arts education, supporting initiatives that brought art into schools, and played a key role in building significant holdings within the WAG-Qaumajuq collection, such as the George & Tannis Richardson Collection of Inuit Art. Her legacy with her husband George Taylor Richardson includes donations by internationally-renowned artists Jean Arp, Barbara Hepworth, and Salvador Dali.
Tannis’ commitment to artists and community was equally evident in her role as a founding member of the committee behind CRAFTED: Show + Sale, now a signature WAG-Qaumajuq event that draws thousands of visitors each year.
Tannis M. Richardson’s vision and generosity leave an inspiring legacy.
Tannis was already being honoured during this year’s Art in Bloom with a floral tribute. It’s fitting that a life so beautifully lived is being recognized in beautiful flowers, a tribute in spirit to the generosity, creativity, and joy she brought to so many.
We extend our sincere condolences to her family and friends.
She will be greatly missed.
Met Tannis a few times with George while our team were searching for James A’s lost Fokker aircraft in Lake Charron. Lovely, kind and engaging lady who will be missed but her spirit will live on.