Roughly 400 oil sketches on small wooden panels define the artistic output of Tom Thomson, an artist who focused his career on the landscapes of Ontario. Though he died at 39 before the formal creation of the Group of Seven, his work remains a pillar of Canadian visual arts, characterized by heavy paint application and expressive, broad brushstrokes.
Professional Beginnings
Born in 1877 in Claremont, Ontario, Thomson did not initially seek a career as a painter. After training in penmanship and copperplate writing at the Canada Business College, he spent several years working in Seattle and Toronto as a commercial artist and pen drafter. During his tenure at firms such as Grip Ltd., he encountered colleagues including J. E. H. MacDonald and Lawren Harris, who would later form the core of the Group of Seven.
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In May 1912, Thomson first visited Algonquin Park in Central Ontario. This location became his primary subject matter, as he spent his subsequent years dividing time between winters in Toronto and long periods within the park. Following advice from MacDonald, he began capturing nature scenes using oil on wood. While his early compositions were modest, he eventually refined his technique to feature vibrant colours and complex arrangements.
Final Years and Legacy
Thomson produced approximately 50 larger works on canvas, including notable paintings such as The Jack Pine and The West Wind. His career ended abruptly in 1917 when he died by drowning in Canoe Lake. Today, he is recognized as a Person of National Historic Significance, with his works primarily housed in the National Gallery of Canada, the Art Gallery of Ontario, and the McMichael Canadian Art Collection.
Fast facts
- Born: 1877, Claremont
- Died: 1917, Canoe Lake
- Occupations: Painter, printmaker, architectural drafter
- Notable Works: The Jack Pine, The West Wind
- Citizenship: Canada
- Award: Person of National Historic Significance
Questions readers ask
Was Tom Thomson a member of the Group of Seven?
He died before the Group was formally established, though he is often considered an unofficial member due to his close association with the founding artists.
Where are his paintings currently located?
Most of his works are kept in Canada, primarily held by the National Gallery of Canada, the Art Gallery of Ontario, the Tom Thomson Art Gallery, and the McMichael Canadian Art Collection.
Achievements
- Notable work: The West Wind
- Notable work: The Jack Pine
