Drawing Home (2017) Plot Summary Explained

Born in Concord, Massachusetts, Catharine Robb navigates her formative years amidst the opulence of the East Coast elite. During her time at the Boston Museum of Fine Arts in the 1920s, she encounters Peter Whyte, a fellow art student hailing from Banff and raised in a middle-class family. Their connection is instantaneous and profound, prompting Catharine to end her prior relationship with John D. Rockefeller III, with whom she shares a life of privilege. Instead, she embarks on a passionate, secretive love affair with Peter, confronting significant geographical barriers and the stern disapproval of her mother, Edith Morse Robb, before ultimately deciding to marry.

Settling in the beautiful surroundings of Banff, Catharine seamlessly adapts to Peter's rustic lifestyle. They reside in a modest log cabin equipped with only the essentials, and she plays a pivotal role in founding the now-celebrated Skoki Ski Lodge. Enveloped by the breathtaking wilderness of Banff National Park, the couple immerses themselves in painting, photography, hiking, and skiing, creating a vibrant artistic community. Their home becomes a refuge for notable friends, including renowned wildlife artist Carl Rungius, members of the illustrious Group of Seven, and local figures from the Stoney First Nation.

However, their seemingly perfect existence is marred by sorrow. A tragic event occurs when Kit Paley, a promising young mathematician from MIT and a guest at Skoki Lodge, succumbs to an avalanche after venturing out alone, despite the warnings given by the Whytes. Although Peter is absolved of any blame, he struggles deeply with guilt, leading him down a path of excessive drinking as he seeks solace. Soon after, Peter faces a devastating diagnosis—cataracts in both eyes—which severely hampers his ability to paint. As the reality of impending blindness sinks in, his state of mind spirals into despair, punctuated by persistent alcoholism. Despite Catharine's relentless support, the strain of Peter's deteriorating condition poses significant challenges to their marriage, testing their bond amid the enchanting yet unforgiving backdrop of their lives in Banff.