Clarence Alphonse Gagnon, a French Canadian painter, was born on November 8, 1881, in Montreal, Canada. He is well known for his landscape paintings of the Laurentians and the Charlevoix region of eastern Quebec. Gagnon's work is characterized by its unique blend of traditional and modern techniques, making him one of the most important Canadian artists of his time.
Early Life and Education
Gagnon was the son of Alphonse E. Gagnon, a milling manager, and a cultured English mother who encouraged his early interest in art. He studied with William Bremner at the Art Association of Montreal in 1897. Later, he attended the Académie Julian in Paris from 1904 to 1905, where he was taught by Jean-Paul Laurens. Before returning to Canada in 1909, Gagnon spent time painting in France and Italy.
Artistic Career
Gagnon's artistic career spanned several decades, during which he produced numerous paintings that showcased his mastery of landscape art. He is particularly famous for his winter landscapes, which often featured mountains, valleys, sharp contrasts, vivid colors, and sinuous lines. Some of his notable works include
Mont Saint Michel, Morning,
Lac de Charlevoix, and
Golden Autumn, Laurentians. These paintings can be found in various museums and collections, including the
McMichael Canadian Art Collection and the
La Pulperie de Chicoutimi.
Key aspects of Gagnon's work include his use of light and color to evoke a sense of atmosphere and mood. His paintings often captured the essence of rural life in Quebec, making him an important figure in Canadian art history.
Legacy and Influence
Gagnon was a member of the Royal Canadian Academy of Arts and played a significant role in advancing modernist painting within Canada. He was also an influential teacher, with one of his disciples being the painter
René Richard. Gagnon's works have been exhibited at various galleries, including
Gallery L'Art français, and can be found in collections around the world.
Gagnon passed away on January 5, 1942, at the Royal Victoria Hospital in Montreal. His legacy continues to be celebrated through his beautiful landscape paintings, which remain an important part of Canadian art history.