Beyond Wilderness: The Group of Seven, Canadian Identity, and Contemporary Art

by John O'Brian, Peter White

Book by

Genres: Nonfiction, Canada, Art, Art History, History

400 pages, Paperback

First published September 1, 2007

Reviews

[Richard · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was an eye-opener for me. It explodes the myth that the Group of Seven, a group of innovative and intrepid young artists, trekked into the unknown in order to capture on canvas the pristine northern wilderness of Canada. This wilderness has in the minds of many Canadians become emblematic of their homeland and the Group of Seven have become part and parcel of this mythology.

Beyond Wilderness shows that the Group of Seven, rather than arising miraculously out of an artistic chaos, was in fact a product of its time, had an agenda and had associates and sponsors whose motives were not always so pristine. Other artists, including women such as Emily Carr, and First Nations people, are also considered and given their say.

[Mark · Rating 2 out of 5]

While I knew that the Group of Seven would be a big part of the focus, I had no idea that nearly every essay was going to be about them. I would have liked to see at least half of the focus shifted towards contemporary work. Artists like Jeff Wall and Rodney Graham came up from time to time, but there were no discussions in depth about their work. This is why this book should not be titled Beyond Wilderness. It should just be titled Critiquing Wilderness.

[Tabitha Mann · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great and controversial collection of essays with art pieces. Exposed to some new artists and perspectives. Addressed some internal questions. It's been awhile since I've read something that makes some points that I really do not agree with but still thoroughly enjoy to read and appreciate; really enjoyed that. Imo some of the material or blurbs should be used in school 🏫 I was fascinated with the attention on Cdn climate change and it's part in it globally in some sections - not addressed enough, again Canada trying to be quiet and sneaky about it's wrong doings - and I respected the authors selection of art to represent that topic as well as the fine balance between accountability and shared responsibilities.

[Wendy Payne · Rating 4 out of 5]

This booked challenged my colonial perspectives.