Alexander Young Jackson 

Canadian painter A.Y Jackson drew inspiration from various artistic influences. While the exact sources of his studies and influences remain elusive, discernible echoes of various artists and movements permeate his works. His style reflects the impact of impressionism, the symbolist landscapes of Scandinavian painters, and the vibrating expressionistic line of Edvard Munch.[1] In the fall of 1913, Jackson relocated to Toronto. Frustrated with advertising work and Montreal’s lack of interest in his art, he sought new horizons in the bustling city.[2] Jackson’s paintings feature vibrant, full colours and rolling rhythms as seen in Campsite, Georgian Bay, (c.1924 – 1940) and Georgian Bay Rocks (c.1924-1940). Georgian Bay was a region that Jackson would frequently return to throughout his career for he referred to the area as “his happy hunting ground for camping and fishing at all seasons, and in all kinds of weather.”[3]The scenery comprised of rocky islets, intricate channels, and picturesque bays, which was why Jackson referred to it as his favourite exploration spot.[4] Jackson placed a crucial role in uniting artists from Montreal and Toronto, forming what is now known as the Group of Seven.[5] His connection with fellow members J.E.H MacDonald (1873 – 1932) and Lawren Harris (1885 – 1970) was established after they saw and admired his paintings of the early 1910s.[6]

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Click here to read more about Jackson's Algoma Hills, 1919-20.

 

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[1] “The Group of Seven Movement Overview,” The Art Story, accessed March 28, 2024, https://www.theartstory.org/movement/group-of-seven/.

[2] Ann Davis and Daniel Baird, “A. Y. Jackson,” in The Canadian Encyclopedia, April 16, 2015, https://www.thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/ay-jackson.

[3] “Lot 140 Alexander Young (A.Y.) Jackson,” Heffel (Auction House), accessed March 28, 2024, https://www.heffel.com/auction/LotDetails_E?Request=iZTDNdl2DfJc8jRi4pFzNF4FyYcqe80krsL77dDV7HAcd4KqXFxqwvvM9KhoHGl8e7RFZT7Z5oR/alXlYBo1qEucY9kMnpaUHT9s47RzMz4BYhhzDKgZR3GdrZoMz5fM6L47YsTKL6uFnSg11gKW4zLHPT4NNHxiseOiLeIjXK57rZ71KkGAbbdzblhx1MoMHIxH00PiFiBHsc32DDwtq0gFzB0iksK1.

[4] “Lot 140 Alexander Young (A.Y.) Jackson.”

[5] “A.Y. Jackson – Biography and Artwork of the Canadian Artist – Artchive,” accessed March 28, 2024, https://www.artchive.com/artists/a-y-jackson/.

[6] “Hambleton Galleries,” Art Gallery, Biography - A.Y. Jackson (blog), accessed March 28, 2024, https://www.hambletongalleries.com/artist/a-y-jackson/.