Giants Portrait48" x 36"
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West End Gallery is a proudly Canadian business, celebrating the incredible talent of artists from coast to coast. For five decades, we have championed Canadian art and supported the vibrant creative community that makes this country extraordinary.
Edmonton, Alberta · Est. 1975
Founded in 1975, West End Gallery has been a cornerstone of Edmonton's arts community for five decades. Located in the heart of Alberta's capital, we take pride in our deep roots and our commitment to showcasing exceptional artwork from talented artists across Canada.
Giants Portrait | 48" x 36"
About the Artwork
Giants Portrait is a 48" × 36" original oil on birch board painting by James Wiens.
In Giants Portrait, the bison is too large for the canvas to contain. Its shoulder enters from the upper left; one pale horn rises out of the dark mass of fur, and the muzzle reaches toward the open space at right. Wiens sets the animal against a nearly bare, warm grey ground, making every change in the coat visible.
Short strokes turn around the forehead and cheek, lengthen along the hanging beard and gather into tighter patterns over the shoulder. Russet highlights pick out individual locks within the deep browns and black. The close crop places the eye near the centre of a painting built around the bison's immense physical presence and the detail of its surface.
Dimensions and Details
- Title: Giants Portrait
- Artist: James Wiens
- Size: 48" × 36" × 1½" (121.9 × 91.4 × 3.8 cm)
- Medium: Oil on Birch Board
- Display: Unframed on 1½" deep birch board with finished white edges; custom framing is available.
Acquisition Enquiries
Giants Portrait is available through West End Gallery. To acquire this work, arrange a private viewing, or discuss framing, please contact the gallery. Shipping is quoted by location, with complimentary delivery available within Edmonton.
Accessibility Description
A vertical close-up portrait of a bison filling most of the canvas from the left edge. One pale horn curves upward near the top centre, above a dark eye and a densely textured face. The fur is rendered in layered browns, russets and black, with lighter strokes defining the cheek and shoulder. The muzzle extends toward the right against a pale cream and grey background that remains soft and largely unpatterned.
Full Provenance
Offered by West End Gallery, representing James Wiens.
Disclaimer
This description has been prepared by West End Gallery using original documentation and current scholarship. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, minor variations or additional information may emerge through ongoing research. Prospective purchasers are encouraged to contact us to confirm any details critical to their acquisition decision.
Shipping & Exchanges
SHIPPING
All artwork is professionally crated and shipped via insured courier service. Shipping rates are calculated based on artwork dimensions and destination.
Delivery Methods:
• Local Pickup — Free at our Edmonton gallery (10337 124 Street NW)
• Local Delivery — complimentary within of Edmonton area
• Canada-wide Shipping — Canada Post, Canpar, Purolator or private courier
• US Shipping — DHL Express
• International & Overseas — DHL Express
Final shipping and handling costs will be confirmed with a quote before payment. Delivery times may vary due to weather, supply chain disruptions, or other factors beyond our control.
INSURANCE
Insurance coverage is not included in shipping estimates and is available upon request.
Exchange
We do not offer refunds, however we allow exchange or store credit within 72 hours of receipt, provided the artwork is returned in its original condition and packaging. Read more
Artwork Care
CARING FOR YOUR ARTWORK
Display
Hang artwork away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and air vents. UV exposure causes fading over time — UV-protective glazing is recommended for works on paper and photography. Avoid hanging artwork above fireplaces or in bathrooms where heat and humidity fluctuate.
Cleaning
Dust frames gently with a soft, dry cloth. Never use household cleaners, water, or solvents on the artwork surface. For oil paintings, a soft-bristle brush can be used lightly to remove surface dust. Professional cleaning is recommended for valuable or delicate pieces.
Temperature & Humidity
Maintain a stable environment — ideally 18–22°C (65–72°F) with 40–55% relative humidity. Rapid changes in temperature or humidity can cause warping, cracking, or flaking. In Alberta’s dry climate, a humidifier can help protect your collection during winter months.
Handling & Moving
Always handle artwork with clean, dry hands or cotton gloves. Carry framed works by the sides of the frame — never by the hanging wire. When transporting, wrap in acid-free tissue or soft blankets and keep upright. For valuable pieces, professional art handlers and custom crating are recommended.
Storage
Store artwork upright in a cool, dry, dark space. Use acid-free materials for wrapping. Never store artwork in attics, basements, or garages where temperature and humidity are uncontrolled.
Insurance
We recommend insuring your art collection. An up-to-date appraisal (every 2–3 years) ensures proper coverage. West End Gallery offers professional appraisal services — please enquire for details.
Questions?
Contact us at info@westendgalleryltd.com or 780-488-4892. We’re always happy to advise on the care of your collection.
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