Alberta University of the Arts (AUArts) congratulates alum, Board Member, Honorary Master of Fine Arts recipient and former faculty member Chris Cran on his appointment to the Order of Canada, one of the country's highest civilian honours.
Announced by the Governor General of Canada, the honour recognizes Cran's outstanding contributions to Canadian art as an innovative painter, educator and advocate whose work has influenced generations of artists and helped shape Canada's visual arts landscape.
Known for paintings that challenge perception through humour, illusion and careful observation, Cran has spent more than five decades expanding conversations about how we see and experience art. His work has been exhibited across Canada and internationally and is held in numerous public and private collections.
Cran's connection to AUArts spans decades. A 1979 graduate of the school, known at the time as Alberta College of Art (ACA), he returned to teach as a faculty member from 1990 to 1993 before receiving an Honorary Master of Fine Arts in 2021 for his exceptional artistic achievements and lasting contributions to arts education.
Through his work as an artist, mentor and educator, Cran has inspired generations of artists while making a lasting impact on Alberta's creative community.
