Mabelle Biggar (July 1, 1892 – March 26, 1973) was a Canadian painter and arts administrator who made significant contributions to the arts scene in British Columbia during the mid-twentieth century. Born on July 1, 1892, in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Biggar moved with her family to Victoria, BC, as a young girl.

Biggar’s artistic talents were evident from an early age. She studied under Emily Carr and later attended the Vancouver School of Decorative and Fine Arts (now the Emily Carr University of Art and Design) in the 1920s. During this time, she also spent a year studying abroad at the École des Beaux-Arts in Paris.

Returning to Victoria in the late 1920s, Biggar began teaching art classes at various schools and community centers. She also became involved in local arts organizations, including the Victoria Arts Council and the Canadian Society of Painters in Water Colour. In 1933, she was appointed as the first director of the Vancouver Art Gallery.

During her time as director of the Vancouver Art Gallery, Biggar oversaw the acquisition of many significant works by Canadian artists, including Emily Carr and Lawren Harris. She also organized numerous exhibitions and events to promote Canadian art both locally and nationally.

Biggar’s own artistic practice focused primarily on landscapes and still lifes, with a particular emphasis on the natural beauty of British Columbia. Her work was influenced by her travels throughout Canada and Europe, as well as by the Group of Seven and other Canadian modernist artists.

After leaving the Vancouver Art Gallery in 1948, Biggar continued to paint and exhibit her work. She also remained involved in arts administration, serving on the board of the British Columbia Arts Council and helping to establish the Federation of Canadian Artists. In 1962, she was made a Member of the Order of Canada in recognition of her contributions to the arts.

Mabelle Biggar passed away on March 26, 1973, leaving behind a significant legacy as both an artist and an arts administrator. Her work can be found in galleries across Canada, including the National Gallery of Canada, the Vancouver Art Gallery, and the Art Gallery of Ontario.