Peter Haworth (1889 – 7 May 1986) was a British-born Canadian painter renowned for his innovative work in stained glass and his significant contributions to the Canadian art community. His life experience from World War I heroism to esteemed artist reflects a multifaceted career dedicated to artistic expression and education.
Peter Haworth; Quebec Barn in Laurentian Hills
Born in Oswaldtwistle, Lancashire, England, Peter Haworth's early life set the stage for a remarkable journey across fields of battle and art. During World War I, he served with distinction in the Royal Flying Corps and was decorated with the Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC) for his bravery and service.
After the war, Haworth pursued his passion for art at the Royal College of Art in London, studying under luminaries like William Rothenstein and Robert Anning Bell. Early in his career, he specialized in stained glass, a medium through which he would leave an indelible mark.
Peter Haworth; Trap Anchors, Barachois, Gaspé, P.Q.
In 1923, alongside his wife, Zema Barbara Cogill Haworth (Bobs Cogill Haworth), a painter from South Africa, Haworth moved to Canada, marking the beginning of a significant phase in his career. He was appointed Director of Art at the Central Technical School in Toronto, where he transformed the art department and encouraged individualistic artistic exploration.
Haworth's tenure at the Central Technical School was marked by innovation and inspiration. He hired notable artists, including Doris McCarthy, and continued to accept stained glass commissions, such as the fourteen panels for the First Baptist Church in Ottawa. His painting, "Outhouses," exhibited in 1931, was acquired by the National Gallery of Canada, further solidifying his reputation. By 1936, he had risen to the presidency of the Canadian Society of Painters in Water Colour, reflecting his standing in the art community.
Peter Haworth; Estuary, Nova Scotia
During World War II, the Haworths documented the Canadian armed forces' activities in British Columbia, contributing to the national war effort through art. Known for delving into semi-abstract paintings, Haworth's later exhibitions at the Roberts Gallery in Toronto showcased his evolving style. His stained glass works and teaching legacy have left a lasting impact on the Canadian art scene.
Peter Haworth's enduring legacy as a pivotal figure in the development of Canadian art continues to inspire generations of artists. His multifaceted career, spanning from the battlefield to the art studio, highlights a life dedicated to artistic expression, education, and service to his country.