Thor Froslev

The mural was painted as part of the 2022 Squamish Mural Walk along the full side of a building in downtown Squamish. It was made to honour the work of the Brackendale Art Gallery’s Founder, Thor Froslev. It depicts Thor’s face surrounded by colourful patterns.

Once reading about and learning the history of Thor’s life and contribution, I immediately was drawn to his story and felt like he was a perfect subject for my mural. I was meant to photograph Thor for this mural, but unfortunately he had some health issues and was in hospital for more than a month. So his wife Dorte, sent me some photos to work from. The colours and shapes are based off of one of my abstract watercolour paintings, expressing Thor’s vision and creativity, in a retro vibe. Dorte, Thor’s wife came by multiple times during the mural process, and it was a pleasure to speak with her and learn about Thor. To our good fortune, Thor was released from hospital the day after the mural was finished, and Dorte drove him straight to the mural where we had an opportunity to meet. He was still in a fragile state, but was pleased to see the artwork made in his honour, and it brought a smile to his face. Thor passed in September of 2022. I feel fortunate to have had the chance to honour him for the community in Squamish, and grateful that he had the chance to see the tribute before leaving our world. Local artist, Liesl Peterson, generously helped out on the mural with filling out some of the abstract portions of my design.”