Farquhar McGillivray Knowles (1859-1932) was a distinguished Canadian painter known for his evocative marine paintings and portraits. Born in Syracuse, New York, to a Scottish family, Knowles' early years were marked by a blend of military aspirations and artistic inclinations, a duality that would shape his career in unexpected ways.
Early Life and Education
Knowles' family returned to Canada around 1863, settling in Guelph, Ontario, where he received his early education. Influenced by his military grandfather, Knowles pursued a military career, entering West Point in 1877 to take an artillery course. However, a serious accident during his fourth year at the academy ended his military ambitions, setting him on a path toward the arts.
After his accident, Knowles found work retouching photographs for a New York firm while also pursuing art studies. His early artistic training took a significant turn when he returned to Canada and began working for Messrs. Notman & Fraser in Toronto. Under the tutelage of John A. Fraser, a co-owner of the firm and one of Canada’s most accomplished watercolourists, Knowles developed his skills in miniature painting and watercolours. His proficiency in these mediums earned him an Associate title with the Royal Canadian Academy in 1889, solidifying his reputation as a talented watercolourist.
European Influence and Artistic Growth
In 1890, Knowles married Elizabeth Beach, a former student of his who had studied painting under him. The following year, the couple traveled to Europe, where Knowles continued his art education. In England, he studied under Sir Hubert von Herkomer, a prominent figure in the Royal Academy, for two years. Knowles then moved to Paris, where he spent four years refining his craft under the guidance of Benjamin Constant, Jean-Paul Laurens, Henri Gervex, and Veir Schmidt in drafting.
These years in Europe had a profound impact on Knowles' artistic development. He absorbed the techniques and styles of the European masters, which he later infused into his own work, particularly his marines. Upon returning to Canada, Knowles and his wife opened a school of painting, design, and ceramics, offering life classes that produced many well-trained artists. This period also saw Knowles' deepening involvement in literature, music, and various hobbies, including carpentry, yachting, and motoring.
Artistic Achievements and Marine Paintings
Knowles' versatility as an artist was evident in his wide-ranging subjects, from portraiture to landscapes, but he was particularly celebrated for his marine paintings. E.W.H., a critic for The Ottawa Citizen, praised Knowles’ marine works, noting their "freedom of movement and authentic atmosphere." His paintings like "Windswept" and "Shades of Evening" captured the dynamic interplay of air, sky, and water, portraying the sea in all its moods and colors.
In 1916, Knowles and his wife moved to New York, where they lived on a yacht for a year while he painted scenes of Manhattan’s harbor. His connection to the sea was not just thematic but also personal, as he spent much of his time on the water, which undoubtedly influenced his marine paintings. Despite relocating to New York, Knowles maintained strong ties to Canada, frequently returning to exhibit his work and participate in major Canadian art exhibitions.
Later Life and Legacy
The latter part of Knowles' life was marked by significant personal and professional milestones. In 1920, the Knowles moved permanently to New York, though they continued to spend summers at their home in Riverton, New Hampshire. Tragedy struck in 1928 when Elizabeth Knowles passed away. Knowles returned to Toronto, and in 1931, he married Lila Taylor, a former student who would later become the Art Director at Alma College in St. Thomas, Ontario.
Knowles' contributions to Canadian art were vast and varied. His work was featured in numerous exhibitions, including a Memorial Exhibition at The Art Gallery of Toronto in 1932, which showcased his paintings, prints, drawings, and lithographs. His notable works include "Titan Bathers," a significant piece at the Chicago Art Institute for many years, and his series "The History of Music," housed in the deaconess home in Toronto.
Knowles was also recognized for his portraits of prominent figures such as Sir Robert Falconer, Hon. Chester Massey, Mrs. Timothy Eaton, and Miss Addison. His works are represented in the National Gallery of Canada and the Agnes Etherington Art Centre at Queen’s University, among other collections.
Conclusion
Farquhar McGillivray Strachan Stewart Knowles was an artist who navigated the turbulent waters of life with the same grace and skill that he brought to his marine paintings. His legacy is one of artistic excellence, marked by a deep connection to the sea and a commitment to capturing the world’s beauty in all its forms. Whether through his vivid marine scenes or his insightful portraits, Knowles’ work continues to resonate, offering a glimpse into the soul of a man who found his true calling in art.
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