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Francis Hans Johnston: A Journey Through Canadian Art


Francis Hans Johnston, widely known as Frank H. Johnston and later as Franz Johnston, was a seminal figure in the evolution of Canadian art. Born in Toronto, Ontario, in 1888 to Irish parents Hans Hamilton Johnston and Mary Elizabeth Roderick, his early life was deeply rooted in his native city's cultural fabric. Johnston's artistic journey is a testament to his dedication to portraying the Canadian wilderness, and his legacy is one of profound influence and artistic achievement.

 

 

Early Education and Career

Johnston's artistic inclinations were evident from a young age. He attended Givins Street School in Toronto before furthering his education at the Central Technical School, where he studied under the tutelage of Gustav Hahn. His artistic skills were further honed at the Central Ontario School of Art under the guidance of prominent artists William Cruikshank and G.A. Reid. These early educational experiences laid the foundation for Johnston's future endeavors in the Canadian art scene.

After completing his studies, Johnston initially embarked on a career as a jewelry designer at Birks, followed by an apprenticeship at Brigden's in Toronto. His time at these institutions provided him with a solid grounding in design and craftsmanship, which would later influence his approach to painting. Johnston's artistic journey took a significant turn when he joined the Grip Engraving Company, a pivotal moment that connected him with other like-minded artists who would later become key figures in Canadian art.

The American Sojourn and Return to Canada

In 1910, Johnston made the decision to leave Toronto and pursue further studies in the United States. He attended the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts, where he studied under renowned instructors such as Hale and Garber. His time in the U.S. also included working for the Carleton Studios in New York, which exposed him to new artistic techniques and perspectives.

Despite the allure of New York, Johnston's connection to Canada remained strong. In 1914, with the support of Dr. James MacCallum, a prominent patron of the arts, Johnston briefly returned to Toronto before settling back in New York. However, by 1915, he returned to Toronto permanently, ready to make a significant impact on the Canadian art world.

Contribution to Canadian War Memorials and Algoma Expeditions

Johnston's artistic prowess was recognized during World War I when he was commissioned by the Canadian War Memorials to document the activities of Canadian flying personnel training for overseas duty. Between 1918 and 1919, he produced over seventy-three works, including watercolors, temperas, and oils. These pieces, though documentary in nature, were distinguished by their masterful composition and vibrant coloring, earning them a place among the finest in the war collections.

During this period, Johnston also participated in a series of expeditions to the Algoma region of northern Ontario, alongside fellow artists Lawren Harris, J.E.H. MacDonald, and Dr. MacCallum. The breathtaking landscapes of Algoma, with its golden, yellow, and crimson trees set against majestic mountains, inspired Johnston to create some of his most iconic works. His paintings from these trips, such as "Fire Swept, Algoma" and "Northern Cabin," capture the raw beauty of the Canadian wilderness.

Founding Member of the Group of Seven

In 1920, Johnston became a founding member of the Group of Seven, a collective of artists who sought to capture the essence of the Canadian landscape. However, Johnston's association with the group was short-lived. By 1922, he had distanced himself from the group due to differences in artistic vision. While the Group of Seven embraced a more radical and modernist approach, Johnston preferred a style that resonated with a broader audience, emphasizing vivid color and a more traditional representation of the landscape.

A Career of Versatility and Exploration

Johnston's career was marked by versatility and exploration of various artistic mediums. In 1920, he was appointed Principal of the Winnipeg School of Art, where he continued to produce and exhibit a vast array of works. His exhibitions, such as the one at the Winnipeg Art Gallery, showcased his mastery across different mediums, from tempera to watercolor and pastel. His ability to capture the essence of Western Canada in his paintings was particularly noted for its depiction of the region's expansive plains, cloud-filled skies, and vibrant sunsets.

In 1927, Johnston returned to Toronto and became Principal of the Ontario College of Art. Around this time, he changed his name from Frank to Franz, a decision influenced by a numerologist who suggested that the name change would bring him greater success. From then on, his canvases were signed as Franz Johnston, marking a new chapter in his artistic journey.

Later Years and Legacy

The 1930s saw Johnston establish a summer school of art at Georgian Bay, a region he deeply loved and frequently depicted in his paintings. His works from this period, including those from his trips to the Far North, were celebrated for their depiction of Canada's "lost frontier." His dedication to capturing the essence of Canada's northern landscapes earned him recognition as one of the country's foremost painters of the time.

In the 1940s, Johnston continued to exhibit his works, particularly those depicting the Wyebridge area and the Arctic. His ability to capture the beauty of Canada's landscapes resonated with audiences, leading to successful exhibitions where many of his paintings were sold.

Johnston's health began to decline in the late 1940s, and he suffered a stroke shortly after moving from Wyebridge to Midland, Ontario, in 1948. Despite his passing in 1949, Johnston's legacy endures through his contributions to Canadian art. His dedication to portraying the Canadian wilderness, his involvement in the Group of Seven, and his influence as an educator and artist have left an indelible mark on Canada's cultural heritage.

A plaque was unveiled in his honor on the grounds of his former residence in Wyebridge, Ontario, in 1963, and his works continue to be celebrated and exhibited in galleries across Canada. Francis Hans Johnston's life and work remain a testament to his passion for Canadian art and the landscapes that inspired him.

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