Arthur Lismer, a towering figure in Canadian art history, was born on June 27, 1885, in Sheffield, Yorkshire, England. As the son of a draper and one of six children, Lismer stood out early on for his artistic inclinations. From a young age, he was captivated by sketching and cartooning, much to the delight of his supportive father, who proudly showcased his son's drawings to his colleagues. This early encouragement set the stage for what would become a distinguished career in art.
Early Education and Training in England
Lismer's formal journey into the art world began when he attended Sheffield Central High School. By the age of thirteen, his talents were recognized with a scholarship to the Sheffield School of Art. Despite finding the instruction somewhat mundane, Lismer received a solid foundation in drawing, design, and the visual arts. His apprenticeship in the printing business further honed his skills, and by the age of fifteen, he was working as an illustrator for the Sheffield Independent. This role allowed him to sketch notable figures such as George Bernard Shaw and Winston Churchill, exposing him to a wide range of subjects and refining his observational skills.
His artistic development continued at the Académie des Beaux-Arts in Antwerp, where he studied from 1906 to 1907. Antwerp was a pivotal experience for Lismer, exposing him to the works of Cézanne, Van Gogh, and other European masters. These influences would later play a crucial role in shaping his style. Despite financial struggles upon returning to Sheffield, where he attempted to establish his own business, Lismer's focus soon shifted towards Canada, spurred by the encouraging reports from friends and the opportunities presented by Canadian engraving firms.
Arrival in Canada and the Formation of the Group of Seven
In 1911, Lismer made the life-changing decision to emigrate to Canada, arriving in Toronto and securing employment with the Grip Engraving Company. It was here that Lismer's path crossed with future members of the Group of Seven, including J.E.H. MacDonald and Tom Thomson. The Arts and Letters Club, which he joined through Tom MacLean's invitation, became a hub of artistic exchange and a catalyst for the formation of the Group of Seven.
Lismer's early years in Canada were marked by his growing fascination with the Canadian landscape. Inspired by the stories of Thomson and Broadhead's canoe trips, Lismer ventured into the wilderness himself, sketching alongside Thomson and absorbing the profound sense of the north country. These experiences culminated in a spiritual awakening towards the Canadian landscape, which became a recurring theme in his work.
Personal Life and the Canadian Landscape
In 1912, Lismer returned to Sheffield to marry his fiancée, Esther Mawson, before settling in Toronto. The couple's life in Canada was intertwined with Lismer's artistic pursuits, as they frequently traveled to the Georgian Bay area, Algonquin Park, and other natural sites. These trips not only deepened Lismer's connection to the Canadian wilderness but also provided the raw material for some of his most celebrated works.
One such piece is "The Guide's Home" (1915), painted after a memorable visit to Algonquin Park with Thomson. This painting, executed in a French impressionist style reminiscent of Pissarro, was later acquired by the National Gallery of Canada. Lismer's early work in Canada was characterized by a vivid portrayal of the untamed landscape, capturing the essence of the country's natural beauty with a bold, expressive style.
Contribution to Canadian Art and Education
In 1916, Lismer's career took a new direction when he was appointed principal of the Victoria School of Art and Design in Halifax. His tenure there was marked by significant contributions to art education, including the introduction of Saturday morning art classes for high school and elementary pupils. The Halifax Explosion of 1917 was a harrowing experience for Lismer, but it also provided him with subject matter for his war commissions, resulting in powerful works such as "The Olympic with Returned Soldiers" and "Mine Sweepers, Halifax."
After the war, Lismer returned to Toronto, where he joined the Ontario College of Art as vice-principal. His involvement with the Group of Seven deepened during this period, culminating in his participation in the group's first exhibition at the Art Gallery of Ontario in 1920. Lismer's painting "A September Gale, Georgian Bay" from this time remains one of his most iconic works, capturing the raw power of the Canadian landscape.
Lismer's passion for art education continued to flourish. In 1927, he became the educational supervisor at the Art Gallery of Toronto, where he implemented progressive ideas inspired by the Viennese artist and teacher Franz Cizek. Lismer believed in the importance of nurturing children's creativity and established the Saturday morning classes and the Art Centre for Children, which became cornerstones of the gallery's educational programs.
Later Years and International Influence
Lismer's influence extended far beyond Canada. He was a sought-after lecturer and educator, delivering talks across Canada, the United States, Europe, South Africa, Australia, and New Zealand. His teachings emphasized the necessity of art and its role in fostering creativity and personal expression. In South Africa, Lismer's work in art education left a lasting legacy, particularly in his promotion of children's art.
Throughout his career, Lismer continued to paint, often drawing inspiration from his travels. His trips to the Rocky Mountains, the Gaspé Peninsula, and British Columbia resulted in some of his most striking works, such as "Cathedral Mountain," which was acquired by the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts.
In 1940, Lismer took on the role of Educational Supervisor at the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, where he continued to advocate for art education. His contributions to the field were recognized with numerous honors, including honorary degrees from Dalhousie University and McGill University, as well as the Canada Council Medal.
Legacy
Arthur Lismer's legacy is profound. As a founding member of the Group of Seven, he played a pivotal role in shaping the course of Canadian art, championing the Canadian landscape as a subject worthy of artistic exploration. His contributions to art education were equally significant, influencing generations of artists and educators both in Canada and abroad.
Lismer passed away in 1969, leaving behind a rich body of work that continues to inspire and resonate. His paintings are held in major collections across Canada, and his impact on art education endures through the programs and institutions he helped to establish. Arthur Lismer's life was a testament to the power of creativity, education, and the enduring beauty of the Canadian landscape.
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