NWT Arts

George Low was born and raised in Norway House, Manitoba, where his early connection to the Boreal forest would later influence his artistic work. Drawn by a love of nature and the outdoors, he moved north, working in the Mackenzie Delta region in the early 1970s before settling in Hay River in 1975.

From a young age, George had a strong interest in art and was often sketching and doodling. His father had once aspired to be a professional artist but was discouraged from pursuing it. Despite this, his father continued to create northern-themed artwork throughout his life, leaving a lasting impression on George. George began his own artistic journey with pencil sketching, followed by woodcarving and woodcut prints, before eventually finding his passion in glasswork. He often described himself as an artisan rather than an artist.

George went on to design and create custom stained glass windows, as well as sandblasted images on stained glass and glassware. His work frequently featured abstract and northern themes, including polar bears, ptarmigan, northern lights, and Arctic landscapes. Deeply inspired by his surroundings, he incorporated elements of the taiga and tundra into his original designs, reflecting the natural beauty of the North.

Using the Tiffany method, he created detailed stained glass pieces with flowing designs, producing windows and other works that were both intricate and expressive. He also explored etching techniques and began developing a style in hot glass, using a kiln to experiment with colour and form in new ways.

George found great fulfillment in designing pieces that reflected the lifestyles and stories of his clients. Working with stained glass brought him a sense of calm and focus, allowing him to clear his mind and fully engage in the creative process. He took joy in transforming simple pencil sketches into vibrant, finished works.

A longtime resident of Hay River and a recently retired fisheries biologist, George balanced his professional life with his artistic practice. His work continues to reflect his creativity, his deep connection to the North, and his appreciation for the landscapes and wildlife that shaped his life.