Alfred Joseph Casson (1898-1992) was one of Canada’s most celebrated painters, whose work played a crucial role in shaping the visual identity of the nation. As a member of the iconic Group of Seven, Casson is best known for his vibrant depictions of the Ontario countryside and small villages, captured in both oils and watercolors. His journey from a young boy wandering the rural landscapes of Guelph to a revered artist whose work graces the halls of major Canadian institutions is a testament to his deep connection to the Canadian landscape and his unwavering dedication to his craft.
Early Life and Artistic Beginnings
Born in Toronto in 1898, Casson was introduced to the beauty of the Canadian landscape at an early age. His family moved to Guelph when he was nine, a transition that proved to be pivotal in his development as an artist. It was in Guelph that Casson first began to appreciate the natural world, a love that would later be reflected in his paintings. The family’s subsequent move to Hamilton in 1912 provided Casson with the opportunity to study under John S. Gordon at the Hamilton Technical School, where he began to hone his artistic skills.
At just 16 years old, Casson embarked on his career in the art world, apprenticing at Laidlaw Lithography Co. in Hamilton. Here, he learned the technical skills of retouching photographs, laying patterns, and engraving on zinc plates. This early experience in commercial art provided Casson with a solid foundation in design, which would later influence his work as a painter.
The Influence of Franklin Carmichael and the Group of Seven
In 1915, the Casson family returned to Toronto, where Alfred continued his studies at the Toronto Central Technical School under Alfred Howell and at the Ontario College of Art (OCA) under J.W. Beatty. It was during this period that Casson was introduced to the influential artist Harry Britton, who taught him watercolor techniques and introduced him to oil painting. This mentorship was instrumental in shaping Casson’s artistic direction.
A significant turning point in Casson’s career came in 1919 when he was employed by Rous & Mann Ltd. as an assistant designer to Franklin Carmichael, a founding member of the Group of Seven. Carmichael’s mentorship had a profound impact on Casson, guiding him toward a freer style of painting with a more vibrant use of color. Through Carmichael, Casson was introduced to the other members of the Group of Seven, and he began to join them on their sketching trips. These early excursions, particularly to Lake Rosseau in the Muskoka District in 1921, marked the beginning of Casson’s lifelong passion for capturing the beauty of the Canadian landscape.
Becoming a Member of the Group of Seven
In 1926, Casson’s close association with the Group of Seven culminated in his invitation to join the group, following the departure of F.H. Johnston. This was a significant milestone in Casson’s career, solidifying his place among Canada’s most esteemed artists. Casson’s inclusion in the Group of Seven coincided with his growing interest in depicting Ontario’s rural villages. He meticulously sketched architectural details, which he later used as references for his larger oil paintings. His masterpiece, Anglican Church at Magnetawan (1933), is a testament to his dedication to this theme and was acquired by the National Gallery of Canada in 1936.
A Diverse Artistic Career
While Casson is best known for his landscapes and village scenes, his artistic repertoire was diverse. A fall in 1924 led to a period of convalescence during which he focused on painting flowers and still lifes in the greenhouses of Allan Gardens. These works, characterized by their vibrant colors and meticulous attention to detail, offer a glimpse into Casson’s versatility as an artist.
Casson’s career was not limited to painting alone. He was also a skilled designer and played a significant role in the reproduction of artwork. As Vice-President and Art Director for Sampson-Matthews Limited, he was instrumental in the technical development of reproduction programs in collaboration with the National Gallery of Canada and the Canadian Pulp and Paper Association. His expertise in this field was highlighted in his 1949 article “The Possibilities of Silk Screen Reproduction” in Canadian Art, which featured one of his own prints, Mill Village.
Legacy and Recognition
Casson’s contributions to Canadian art are widely recognized, and his works are represented in numerous public collections across the country, including the National Gallery of Canada, the Art Gallery of Ontario, and the McMichael Canadian Art Collection. His influence extends beyond his paintings, as he played a crucial role in the development of Canadian art through his leadership in organizations such as the Canadian Society of Painters in Water Colour, which he co-founded in 1925.
Despite his many accolades, Casson remained a humble artist, dedicated to his craft until his death at the age of 93. He left behind a legacy of works that continue to inspire and resonate with audiences, capturing the essence of the Canadian landscape and the quiet beauty of its rural villages.
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