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Molly Lamb Bobak, born in 1922 in Vancouver, British Columbia, was a Canadian painter whose legacy is deeply intertwined with both her artistic achievements and her service during World War II. As the daughter of Harold Mortimer Lamb and Alice Mary Price, Molly was introduced to art at a young age. Her passion for the craft was nurtured through Saturday morning classes at the Vancouver School of Art, and she eventually pursued formal studies there under the guidance of notable artists such as Jack Shadbolt and Charles H. Scott.
By the third year of World War II, Molly's life took a significant turn. She enlisted in the Canadian Women's Army Corps (CWAC) in November 1942, a decision that would not only shape her career but also her personal life. Serving in various stations across Canada, she contributed her artistic talents to the Canadian Army Show, designing costumes and scenery. Her commitment and skill were recognized in May 1945 when she was appointed as an Official War Artist with the rank of lieutenant, making her the first female Canadian war artist.
Molly's war art documented the lives of women in the military, capturing their contributions and experiences. She painted CWAC activities both in England and with Line of Communications units in North-West Europe following VE Day. Her work during this period is notable for its unique perspective on war, focusing on the human and often overlooked aspects of military life. Over 400 of her paintings and drawings were deposited in The War Collections, a testament to her prolific output and the importance of her work in preserving history.
In 1945, Molly met fellow war artist Bruno Bobak. The two married and settled in Vancouver after the war, where they both continued to develop their artistic careers. Molly taught painting at the Vancouver School of Art from 1947 to 1950, sharing her expertise and passion with a new generation of artists.
The 1950s and 1960s were a period of growth and exploration for Molly. She received a French government scholarship to study in France from 1950 to 1951, an experience that broadened her artistic horizons. Upon returning to Canada, she balanced her roles as a mother of two—Alexander, born in 1946, and Anny, born in 1957—and a practicing artist. She also taught art at various institutions, including the University of British Columbia's Extension Summer School and the UNB Art Centre in New Brunswick.
Molly's art from this period reflects her evolving style, which combined elements of expressionism and impressionism. She was particularly noted for her vibrant cityscapes and crowd scenes, which captured the energy and dynamism of urban life. Critics, such as Joan Lowndes in Canadian Art, praised her ability to project atmosphere and emotion through her work. Molly's pub scenes, with their heavy lines and high-keyed colors, stood out for their powerful evocation of mood and place.
Throughout her career, Molly continued to paint scenes of everyday life, from bustling streets to serene landscapes. Her work was characterized by a deep connection to her surroundings and a keen observation of human interaction. She also explored floral subjects, capturing the ephemeral beauty of wildflowers with a delicate touch.
Molly's contributions to Canadian art were recognized with numerous solo exhibitions across the country and internationally. Her works were displayed in prestigious galleries such as the Vancouver Art Gallery, the National Gallery of Canada, and the Beaverbrook Art Gallery. She was also represented in collections worldwide, including the Art Museum in Jerusalem, Israel.
In addition to her artistic achievements, Molly received several honors, including an Honorary Doctor of Letters from the University of New Brunswick in 1983 and a Doctor of Fine Arts from Mount Allison University in the same year.
Molly Lamb Bobak's legacy is one of resilience, creativity, and a deep commitment to her craft. Her work as a war artist and her subsequent career as a painter and educator left an indelible mark on Canadian art, and her contributions continue to be celebrated and studied today.
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