Cobalt: A Mining Town and the Canadian Imagination
Dates to be confirmed
Cobalt, Ontario—some 500 kilometres north of Toronto—was established in 1904 following the discovery of rich silver, cobalt, ore, and nickel deposits. At peak production in 1911, Cobalt provided approximately one eighth of the world’s silver. In its heyday, the story of Cobalt was known around the world, and the town attracted miners, scientists, scholars, and of course, artists. This exhibition showcases the work of the artists who visited and documented Cobalt and its silver mines between the First and Second World Wars, after much of the natural resource deposits were depleted. Among them was a rising generation of Canadian modern painters which included Yvonne McKague Housser, Bess Larkin Housser Harris, Isabel McLaughlin, Frederick Banting, A.Y. Jackson, and Franklin Carmichael. These artists created works that depicted Canada as a new, modern industrial nation in step with the future—a contrast to the better-known works from this period that picture Canada as untouched wilderness. While some artists conjured Cobalt as a heroic bastion of industry and enterprise, others focused on the town’s grit and dishevelment. This exhibition and its accompanying publication will explore both sides of this dynamic relationship and shine new light on the settler relationship with the natural landscape. Organized and circulated by McMichael Canadian Art Collection Curated by Dr. Catharine Mastin |
Love of Canadian Wilderness
Group of Seven in Canadian art history remains the most recognizable art group for over a century. One of their favourite places to paint and visit was Algoma and the shores of Lake Superior. This rugged landscape, mostly wild and untouched, remains to this day an inspiration to many contemporary artists. The way in which Group of Seven artists depicted the Canadian landscape is still the image instilled in people’s minds when they think of Canada. It is a perception of stunning natural beauty, adventure in the wilderness, solitude, and admiration of nature. Algoma is a huge part of it. The love and appreciation of the Canadian landscape continue to be part of Canadian life to this day. One of the iconic symbols of Canada is the beauty of nature. Considering the changes that are currently happening to our planet, it is important to foster the respect for untouched nature as depicted in many artworks by the Group of Seven artists. It is obvious that the affection for the Group of Seven art never ceased to exist. Over a century later, the architypes they created through their art remain relevant and important for many Canadians. |