Homer watson artist biography death

While few Canadians know the name or recognize the work of Homer Ransford Watson, in his day, he was one of the most prominent artists in Canada. Throughout his career, he was often called the "Canadian Constable" because his style of painting the local countryside was so reminiscent of British artist John Constable. On May 27, Canada Post will issue two stamps bearing work of Homer Watson to recognize the th anniversary of Watson's birth, the th anniversary of the National Gallery of Canada and the th anniversary of the Royal Canadian Academy of Art, of which Watson was a founding member.

Growing up in rural Ontario, Watson received an art set at a young age as a gift from his aunt. He was far more interested in drawing the fields around his farm than plowing them. Self-taught but showing raw talent, Watson moved to Toronto at nineteen and started making contacts with other artists.

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In , when Watson returned to Doon and began exhibiting his paintings, his ability to capture the drama of nature attracted the attention of many prominent people. Critic Dennis Reid noted, this work " In this work, he relays a message about the power of the natural world and the determination of the human spirit. Many of Watson's paintings are inspired by the countryside around Kitchener, and his style demonstrates honesty and authenticity, as well as an emphasis on the moods and forces of nature.

Notable collectors in both Canada and Britain, including Queen Victoria, owned his paintings and he left a lasting legacy through his efforts in founding the Toronto-based Canadian Art Club to promote the work of Canadian artists.