A. Y. Jackson

A. Y. Jackson was a Canadian painter and a founding member of the Group of Seven, a collective of artists who sought to create a distinctive Canadian art through direct contact with nature. Born on October 3, 1882, in Montreal, Quebec, Jackson began his artistic training at the age of twelve when he enrolled in evening classes at the Montréal Art Association. He later studied at the Art Institute of Chicago and in Paris at the Académie Julian. 

Jackson's early work was influenced by European Impressionism, but after returning to Canada in 1913, he began to develop a more rugged and bold style, inspired by the Canadian landscape. His paintings often depicted the wilderness of Northern Ontario and the Arctic, characterized by their vibrant colors and dynamic brushwork. One of his most famous works, The Red Maple, exemplifies his approach to capturing the spirit of the Canadian wilderness.

During World War I, Jackson served as an official war artist, documenting the Canadian Expeditionary Force's activities in France and Belgium. His war art is noted for its realism and attention to the harsh realities of combat. After the war, Jackson continued to travel and paint across Canada, from the Rocky Mountains to the shores of Nova Scotia. He was a dedicated teacher and mentor to younger artists and played a significant role in fostering a sense of national identity through art.

A. Y. Jackson passed away on April 5, 1974, in Kleinburg, Ontario, but his legacy lives on through his contributions to Canadian art and culture. His works are held in numerous public collections, including the National Gallery of Canada and the Art Gallery of Ontario.