Join us for the second of two intriguing talks that delve into the world of art authentication and the very real detective work involved in finding long lost artworks. Come behind the scenes and learn how curators research, find, and authenticate works of art. From provenance research, to art historical analysis, to cutting-edge scientific methods, our experts will guide you through real-life case studies, sharing stories of both triumphs and challenges in trying to uncover the truth behind artworks.

In this talk, John Geoghegan will celebrate the recent resurfacing of Helen McNicoll’s The Bean Harvest and discuss specific instances of lost works in the history of Canadian art. Geoghegan will explore how art becomes lost, the processes through which some lost works are rediscovered, and provide an overview of some of the “most wanted” works of Canadian art that continue to elude experts. The talk promises to shed light on the fascinating and often mysterious ways in which pieces of art can disappear over time and the efforts made to recover them.

Whether you’re an art enthusiast, collector, or aspiring professional, these talks will provide invaluable insights into how long-lost works are found and what makes an artwork truly original.

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to understand the hidden complexities of art research and authentication and discover the fascinating world where art, history, and real-life detective work comes together.

Presented as part of the exhibition Helen McNicoll: An Impressionist Journey.

John Geoghegan is a curator and writer from Hamilton, Ontario, currently based in Toronto. John joined the McMichael as associate curator, collections and research, in 2022 and has contributed to several McMichael publications, including Uninvited: Canadian Women Artists in the Modern Moment (2021), Elisapee Ishulutaq: My World (2022), and Gathie Falk: Revelations (2022). He holds an MA in art history from York University and is a former senior editor of Inuit Art Quarterly.

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