Known as Canada's pioneering conceptual artist, Iain Baxter has for some forty years produced daring, singular and sensitive works and ideas that have surprised and destabilized both critics and the public. His initial academic training was in zoology and biology, followed by studies in the psychology of education, philosophy and fine arts, as well as Zen philosophy, thanks to a scholarship accorded by the Japanese government. This eclectic journey was to lay the foundations for a prolific artistic practice.

In 1966, Baxter gained attention with his installation Bagged Place, a reconstitution of a complete modern home, including furniture and day-to-day objects—all carefully bagged in clear plastic. The same...