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In memory of those who have Crossed the Bar
JEKYLL, Robert Gammell, RCA - Can these descriptions really be one person: Royal Canadian Naval Commander, stained glass artist, aeronautical engineer, craft advocate, educator, arts administrator, Academician, Royal Canadian Academy of Art? Anyone who knew Robert Jekyll would know the answer. On December 23rd, Canada lost one of its greatest advocates for fine craft and architectural art. An accomplished artist in stained glass, Robert Jekyll created and exhibited his contemporary glass in Canada and abroad with work included in prestigious collections and public art sites. In addition to these accomplishments, Robert applied his unique talents and energy to a mission: building recognition and support for craft as an integral part of the Canadian art world. Over his long and active arts career, Robert was a leader in creating, organizing, and improving key cultural institutions, including Visual Arts Ontario, Artists in Stained Glass, Craft Ontario, Canadian Crafts Federation, and the Ontario Arts Council. Through his organizational work, he expanded public awareness of craft, recognition for craft artists, and financial support for craftspeople and craft exhibitions. It is hard to believe that he did all this as part of a 'second act' in his life, following a successful career as a Professional Aeronautical Engineer and Naval Commander in the Royal Canadian Navy. Robert was a true leader and community-builder. He was a warm, beloved friend and colleague, with charisma and curiosity. Robert's presence conveyed another world, another time – one of old-fashioned chivalry and grace. Despite his many accomplishments, he remained modest, saying, 'Leadership can be defined in many ways. It's putting yourself out in the community and being influenced not only by your own personal views of life but also in response to the views of the community - and then taking action, making things happen." Robert Jekyll made things happen, and through his work, made Canada a better place. Robert is survived by his life partner, Wayne Legere. He was predeceased by his parents, Victor Henry Theodore Jekyll and Dorothy Isabel Binns; and by his brother, Peter Jekill. Fondly remembered by his niece, Dorothy Jekill; and nephew, Peter David Jekill. A memorial celebration is being planned for June 2024. Donations may be made in his name to the Robert Jekyll Award for Leadership in Craft fund, managed by the Canadian Crafts Federation. Published by The Globe and Mail from Feb. 2 to Feb. 6, 2024.
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