A.Y. Jackson: The Life of a Landscape Painter

by Wayne Larsen, A.Y. Jackson (Artist)

Alexander Young Jackson (1882-1974) is a name that instantly conjures up images of our rugged northern landscape and the controversial Group of Seven. This is the first-ever full-length biography of one of Canada’s most beloved characters, and the first to examine in one book the artist, outdoorsman, soldier, teacher, debater, writer, and outspoken defender of modern art.

Jackson spent nearly seventy years travelling Canada on a lifelong quest to, rendering his impressions of its diverse character on canvas and promoting a vibrant, uniquely Canadian style of painting. From southern Alberta to Ellesmere Island, from Newfoundland to Northern British Columbia, he covered more ground than any other artist – scoffing at harsh weather and hostile criticism along the way.

A.Y. Jackson takes readers on a journey through Jackson’s struggles and triumphs, from his childhood in Victorian-era Montreal through his final years as a living legend of Canadian art who thought nothing of camping in a tent on Baffin Island at age 82.

266 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2009

Reviews

[Barry Smollett · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the best artist biography I've ever read, and I've read a lot! It's not only well researched but the author, Wayne Larsen, is also a landscape artist, which adds a lot of insight into A.Y. Jackson's life story. What a life Jackson led, and what a great story Larsen tells. The reproductions of the paintings are generally very good, although two or three could have been better. Oh well, can't have everything...

[Vionna · Rating 2 out of 5]

This was a beautifully produced glossy book with lots of pictures. Too bad, the telling of Mr. Jackson's life was so dull and unimaginative. Larsen certainly did not capture the essence of this man and his brilliance and personality.