Adam Sherriff Scott, a distinguished painter, muralist, and illustrator, was born in 1887 in Perth, Scotland. His journey from the picturesque landscapes of Scotland to the vibrant art scene of Canada is a story of immense talent, perseverance, and artistic dedication. Over the course of his long and varied career, Sherriff Scott made significant contributions to Canadian art, both as a member of the renowned Beaver Hall Group and through his solo work, which captured the essence of the Canadian landscape and its people. Early Life and Education Sherriff Scott's early artistic promise was recognized at a young age, leading him to study at the Edinburgh School of Art from 1904 to 1906. His education continued at Hospitalfield House in...
William Ronald, born William Ronald Smith in 1926 in Stratford, Ontario, stands as a monumental figure in Canadian art history, particularly for his role in advancing abstract expressionism in the country. His early life, shaped by the quaint environments of small towns like Fergus and Brampton, Ontario, provided a humble backdrop to the ambitions that would later see him rise to international acclaim. From a young age, Ronald was drawn to the arts, with a particular passion for painting. His early artistic inclinations were nurtured by a high school teacher, Myrtle Strait, who recognized his potential and encouraged him to pursue a career in art. However, Ronald's interests were not confined solely to painting. He was also an avid...
Albert Henry Robinson, a pivotal figure in Canadian art, was born on February 2, 1881, in Hamilton, Ontario, to William Wesley and Emma (Dewart) Robinson. His early life was marked by a passion for drawing, a trait that was evident from his school days. Even in primary and secondary school, Robinson was often found sketching on the margins of his textbooks. This love for art followed him through high school, where he was briefly expelled for passing flirtatious, illustrated notes among classmates—a testament to his early flair for visual storytelling. After completing high school, Robinson took his first steps toward a professional art career by securing a position as an illustrator for the Hamilton Times, where he earned five dollars...
Sarah Margaret Robertson (1891-1948) was a Canadian painter whose vibrant and expressive works continue to captivate art enthusiasts today. Born in Montreal, Quebec, Sarah was the middle daughter of Jessie Anna (Christie) and John Armour Robertson. Her upbringing in Montreal, a city rich in cultural heritage, provided the foundation for her future in the arts. \ Robertson's formal art education began at the age of nineteen when she received the prestigious Wood Scholarship to study at the Art Association of Montreal. This opportunity allowed her to delve deeply into life classes and to learn under the guidance of renowned instructors like William Brymner and Maurice Cullen. Later, from 1921 to 1924, she continued her studies under Randolph Hewton, another...
Jean-Paul Riopelle, born in Montreal, Quebec, in 1923, was destined to leave a significant mark on the world of art. As the only son of an architectural designer, Riopelle was exposed to creativity from an early age. His father, recognizing his artistic potential, arranged for him to study under Montreal artist Henri Bisson. Starting at the tender age of six, Riopelle spent his Saturdays with Bisson, learning traditional painting techniques. For a decade, he honed his skills, painting landscapes, still lifes, and figures, often accompanied by the melodies of the New York Metropolitan Opera playing in the background. Despite his early training in traditional art, Riopelle's artistic journey took a dramatic turn when he began exploring abstract expressionism. This...
