Emily Carr, born in 1871 in Victoria, British Columbia, was a pioneering Canadian artist and writer whose deep connection to her hometown shaped much of her life and work. Raised in a strict English household on Government Street, she grew up exploring the nearby forests and seashores—early influences that would later define her art.
After studying in San Francisco, England, and France, Carr returned to Victoria where she struggled for recognition, living for many years at the “House of All Sorts,” a boarding house she ran to support herself. Though she often felt stifled by the conservative culture of Victoria, it remained her lifelong base and the emotional core of her identity. From this coastal city, she launched painting trips into Indigenous villages and remote landscapes, returning with canvases that challenged artistic norms. In her final years, Victoria embraced her legacy, and it is here she died in 1945, now celebrated as a Canadian icon.
The Forest Through the Eyes of Emily Carr
Step into the World of Emily Carr
on a Guided Walk
Step into the world of Emily Carr on this engaging two-hour guided walk through historic James Bay, Victoria's oldest neighbourhood.
Beginning at the covered patio of For Good Measure (579 Niagara Street), we'll explore the places where one of Canada's most celebrated artists lived, worked, and found inspiration.
We'll visit 12 significant locations, including Carr House National Historic Site, where Emily was born in 1871, and discover how her family, friendships, and the city itself shaped her remarkable life. Stroll past heritage homes, the residences of her sisters, and the site of the apartment building she designed and managed, later immortalized in her bestselling memoir, The House of All Sorts.
The tour continues through Beacon Hill Park to one of Emily's favourite sketching spots and across the footbridge dedicated in her honour. Along the way, you'll hear stories of the Cridge family, Dr. John Sebastian Helmcken, Emily's beloved monkey Woo, and the famous 1930 "Fresh Seeing" speech that marked a turning point in her artistic career.
After a short break at Museum Plaza, we'll visit the Emily Carr statue beside the Fairmont Empress, the site of her father's provisions store and later for a time the first Emily Carr Gallery in Victoria.
The last stop on our adventure, before we return to where we started, is at the building where Emily spent the final days of her life.
Blending art, local history, biography, and storytelling, this walk offers a fascinating introduction to Emily Carr and the Victoria that inspired her.
Whether you're a longtime admirer or discovering her for the first time, you'll leave with a deeper appreciation of the artist, her city, and her enduring legacy.
For an even richer experience, consider adding the tour of the interior of Carr House before or after the walk during their open hours.
Come discover the city through Emily's eyes and experience a side of Victoria that most visitors never see. Reserve your spot today!Friday, July 17 | 3 - 5 pm
3 - 5 pm
Saturday, July 18 | 10 - Noon
Wednesday, July 22 | 10 - Noon
Wednesday, July 22 | 10 - Noon
Thursday, July 23 | 10 - Noon
Friday, July 24 | 3 - 5 pm
Saturday, July 25 | 10 - Noon
latest blog post
Mon, Jul 06, 2026
her circle
In the story of Emily Carr’s artistic development, much attention has been given to her relationship with members of the Group of Seven, particularly Lawren Harris. Yet other friendships—ones that began just across the border in Seattle—were equally important in helping Carr find confidence in her mature artistic voice. That friendship was with Seattle artists, Ambrose and Viola Patterson and in particular Mark Tobey.
Read more: Emily Carr and Mark Tobey: A Friendship That Crossed Borders ...newsletter archives
May 2026
June 2026
still to come
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hosted, designed & maintained by Marilyn Jones for the Emily Carr courses, presentations, talks & walks she offers in person and online from Victoria, BC.
