The Group of Seven – Influential Landscape Painters of Canada
The Group of Seven, a collective of Canadian landscape painters founded in 1920, played a pivotal role in shaping Canada’s national art identity. Comprising artists Franklin Carmichael, Lawren Harris, A.Y. Jackson, Franz Johnston, Arthur Lismer, J.E.H. MacDonald, and Frederick Varley, the group is renowned for its vibrant and emotive depictions of the Canadian wilderness. Drawing inspiration from the rugged beauty of the country’s vast forests, lakes, and mountains, their work emphasized bold colors and expressive brushwork. The Group of Seven’s innovative approach not only challenged conventional art norms of the time but also laid the groundwork for a distinctly Canadian artistic expression, profoundly influencing subsequent generations of artists.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- The Group of Seven captured the Canadian wilderness in their art.
- Their work created a unique Canadian artistic identity.
- The group’s legacy still influences artists today.
Birth of the Group of Seven
Date Group Started | 1920 |
---|---|
Date Group Disbanded | 1933 |
Prominent Members | Lawren Harris, A.Y. Jackson, J.E.H. MacDonald, Arthur Lismer, Franklin Carmichael, Frederick Varley, and Frank Johnston |
Genre of Work | Landscape painting |
The Group of Seven, also known as the Algonquin School, was a renowned collective of Canadian landscape painters active from 1920 to 1933. These artists, including Franklin Carmichael, Lawren Harris, and A. Y. Jackson, aimed to capture the spirit and rugged beauty of the Canadian wilderness. They revolutionized Canadian art by presenting the northern boreal forest of the Canadian Shield as a spiritual and transcendent force.
Photograph of Group of Seven taken at a luncheon, Arts and Letters Club, Toronto (1920); See page for author, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Their innovative work moved away from European traditions and brought a unique Canadian perspective to the art world. The Group of Seven’s vivid and dynamic depictions of the landscape resonated deeply with audiences, establishing a national identity through their visual art.
The group’s emphasis on the natural beauty of Canada highlighted the country’s vast and diverse geography.
Although the group officially disbanded in 1933, their influence on Canadian art remained significant. Their legacy continues to inspire artists and shape the perception of Canada’s landscapes today. The work of the Group of Seven paved the way for future generations, establishing a lasting artistic heritage that celebrates the raw and powerful imagery of the Canadian outdoors.
Beginnings and Development
The Group of Seven officially formed in 1920. This was a year after several artists, including Franklin Carmichael, Lawren Harris, and J.E.H. MacDonald, decided to band together formally. Members initially connected through shared experiences at the Ontario College of Art and the Arts and Letters Club of Toronto.
Their collaboration was driven by a common belief in creating art that truly represented Canada’s rugged, natural landscapes.
The group’s first exhibition took place in 1920 at the Art Gallery of Ontario. It marked the beginning of a new movement in Canadian art. Their style evolved from recording, on small birch panels, the wilderness during expeditions to places like Algoma and Muskoka. The group eventually expanded to include other artists who shared their vision.
Evolution of the Group of Seven Movement
The Group of Seven evolved by embracing distinct Canadian landscapes and by promoting modernism. Their unity and shared vision played pivotal roles in shaping Canadian art.
Mont des Cats (1917) by A. Y. Jackson; A. Y. Jackson, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Key Ideas of the Group
The Group of Seven, also known as the Algonquin School, was formed with the belief that Canadian art should be intrinsically tied to the country’s landscape. The seven original members included Lawren Harris, J.E.H. MacDonald, A.Y. Jackson, Frank Johnston, Arthur Lismer, Franklin Carmichael, and Frederick Varley.
They sought to portray the unique beauty of the Canadian landscape, particularly the northern boreal forests and rugged terrains of the Canadian Shield.
This unifying idea was revolutionary in Canadian art, setting them apart from European influences. Their works are noted for the use of bold colors, strong brushstrokes, and a sense of spiritual connection with nature. The Group’s aim was not just to depict landscapes but to capture the essence and spirit of Canada’s vast wilderness. By doing so, they aimed to foster a sense of national identity.
Artistic Accomplishments
The first major public presentation of the Group of Seven took place on May 7, 1920, at the Art Gallery of Ontario. This exhibition, featuring 120 paintings, was a landmark event in Canadian art history. It marked the emergence of a distinct Canadian artistic identity. Over time, their reputation grew, and they became Canada’s first internationally recognized art movement. The Group’s influence extended beyond their original members.
Falls, Montreal River (1920) by J. E. H. MacDonald; J. E. H. MacDonald, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Artists such as Emily Carr and Tom Thomson, though not original members, were closely associated with the Group. Their styles helped in further redefining Canadian art. As the Group of Seven dissolved in 1933, it paved the way for future movements in Canadian art, laying a foundation for modernist approaches and themes centered on the Canadian landscape.
Concepts of the Group of Seven
The Group of Seven held a collective vision of shaping Canadian identity through art that emphasized nationalism, the distinctive Canadian landscape, and innovative techniques. The Group of Seven aimed to create a unique Canadian art that reflected the nation’s identity. They believed in portraying Canada’s essence distinct from European influences.
Their paintings celebrated the cultural and geographical uniqueness of Canada, contributing to the development of a national pride in the arts.
The Canadian Landscape
Central to their work was the representation of the Canadian landscape. They depicted the rugged, untouched beauty of places like the Algonquin Park and the Canadian Shield. The group’s work drew directly from the country’s natural diversity, capturing its vast forests, waterways, and dramatic seasonal changes.
North Shore, Lake Superior (1927) by Lawren Harris; Lawren Harris, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Techniques
The Group of Seven utilized bold color palettes and expressive brushwork. Their approach was marked by a rejection of European conventions, emphasizing spontaneity and vivid colors to convey the emotional impacts of the landscape.
Each artist also incorporated their unique style, contributing to a diverse yet cohesive body of work that resonated with audiences.
Notable Artists of the Group of Seven
The Group of Seven, a collective of painters, celebrated Canada’s landscapes through their unique artistic perspectives. Key figures in the group created significant works that left a lasting impact on Canadian art.
Artillery Observation-Pilot Observing Shell Burst (1918) by Frank Johnston; Frank Johnston, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Significant Artworks
- Lawren Harris is known for his paintings of Arctic landscapes and urban scenes. His work, North Shore, Lake Superior, is a famous example of his minimalist style, capturing the stark beauty of Canada’s northern regions.
- A.Y. Jackson’s piece, The Red Maple, exemplifies his vibrant use of color and dynamic brushstrokes. His depictions of rural Canadian life and nature are pivotal to the group’s aesthetic.
- J.E.H. MacDonald’s The Tangled Garden is celebrated for its rich texture and colorful depiction of a wild, natural garden. His works often reflect detailed, layered compositions.
- Arthur Lismer’s A September Gale, Georgian Bay is notable for its dramatic portrayal of stormy weather over a rugged coastline. He emphasized the raw power of Canadian landscapes in his art.
- Although not an official member, Emily Carr was closely linked with the Group of Seven. Her work, Big Raven, showcases her representation of the rugged West Coast landscape, blending indigenous themes with nature.
Legacy of the Group of Seven Today
The Group of Seven continues to play a pivotal role in shaping Canada’s cultural and artistic identity. Their works are housed in major galleries and museums, reflecting their enduring influence. Art education in Canada frequently includes study of the Group of Seven. Their innovative techniques and unique Canadian perspectives offer essential insights for aspiring artists. Many contemporary Canadian artists draw inspiration from the Group of Seven.
This group’s focus on the natural landscape and indigenous qualities of Canada resonates in modern art practices.
Tourism has also been influenced by the Group of Seven. Locations such as Algonquin Park experience visitor boosts due to their depiction in iconic paintings. The National Gallery of Canada and the Art Gallery of Ontario see significant attendance driven by the Group of Seven’s exhibitions. These institutions frequently organize retrospectives and shows to celebrate their legacy.
Lone Lake (1929) by Franklin Carmichel; Franklin Carmichael, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Public appreciation for Canadian landscapes is deeply influenced by the Group of Seven. Their art serves as a reminder of the country’s natural beauty and environmental significance. Overall, the Group of Seven remains an integral part of Canadian cultural heritage. Their work continues to inspire, educate, and influence both artists and the public.
The Group of Seven left an indelible mark on the landscape of Canadian art, forging a path for a uniquely national artistic expression. Their commitment to capturing the raw, untamed beauty of Canada’s natural environment not only elevated landscape painting but also instilled a sense of pride and identity in Canadian culture. Through their innovative techniques and passionate exploration of the wilderness, these artists transcended traditional boundaries, leaving a legacy that continues to inspire and influence contemporary art. The Group of Seven’s contributions remain a testament to the power of art to reflect and shape national identity, ensuring their place as seminal figures in the history of Canadian art.
Frequently Asked Questions
When Was the Group of Seven Formed?
The Group of Seven was formed in 1920. It initially comprised seven members who shared a commitment to developing a distinct Canadian art style. They were later joined by others before disbanding in 1933.
What Is the Group of Seven Known For?
The Group of Seven is renowned for their vivid landscape paintings that depicted the Canadian wilderness. They often portrayed dense, northern boreal forests and rugged landscapes, emphasizing the natural beauty and spiritual essence of the Canadian terrain.
Why Was the Group of Seven Controversial?
The Group of Seven faced controversy because their modernist approach to landscape painting deviated from traditional art norms. Their work was sometimes seen as radical and met resistance from more conservative elements within the Canadian art community.
Why Did the Group of Seven Disband?
The Group of Seven disbanded in 1933. The members decided that their collective goals had been achieved and felt it was time for them to pursue individual artistic paths. Additionally, the formation of new art groups allowed the members to explore different artistic directions.
Isabella studied at the University of Cape Town in South Africa and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts majoring in English Literature & Language and Psychology. Throughout her undergraduate years, she took Art History as an additional subject and absolutely loved it. Building on from her art history knowledge that began in high school, art has always been a particular area of fascination for her. From learning about artworks previously unknown to her, or sharpening her existing understanding of specific works, the ability to continue learning within this interesting sphere excites her greatly.
Her focal points of interest in art history encompass profiling specific artists and art movements, as it is these areas where she is able to really dig deep into the rich narrative of the art world. Additionally, she particularly enjoys exploring the different artistic styles of the 20th century, as well as the important impact that female artists have had on the development of art history.
Learn more about Isabella Meyer and the Art in Context Team.
Cite this Article
Isabella, Meyer, “The Group of Seven – Influential Landscape Painters of Canada.” Art in Context. October 9, 2024. URL: https://artincontext.org/the-group-of-seven/
Meyer, I. (2024, 9 October). The Group of Seven – Influential Landscape Painters of Canada. Art in Context. https://artincontext.org/the-group-of-seven/
Meyer, Isabella. “The Group of Seven – Influential Landscape Painters of Canada.” Art in Context, October 9, 2024. https://artincontext.org/the-group-of-seven/.