Regional Art Collection

Street Scene in Montreal, 2012
Oil on canvas
76.4 x 51 cm

Originally from Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, Stephan Scrak often visited Montreal before settling there in 1986 to open a bed and breakfast. In search of a distraction from his daily work, he rediscovered his love for the arts, especially painting. Perhaps unconsciously, the architecture of Montreal and its vibrant colors led him toward a distinctive painting style. Initially created to decorate the walls of the inn, his paintings caught the attention of his guests and clients. Their enthusiasm and encouragement inspired him to dream of a place where he could live and paint full-time. After a visit to the Pontiac and meeting many artists who live there, Stephan Scrak decided to move to the region. He lived and painted in Portage-du-Fort, on the shores of the Ottawa River. Stephan Scrak passed away in 2015.