Works
  • Henri Masson, Autumn, Rideau River
    Autumn, Rideau RiverCAD 1,600.00
    Henri Masson, Autumn, Rideau River
    CAD 1,600.00
  • Henri Masson, Green Hills, 1950
    Green Hills, 1950CAD 2,500.00
    Henri Masson, Green Hills, 1950
    CAD 2,500.00
  • "Murray Bay" by Henri Masson, painted in 1973, captures the picturesque landscape of the Charlevoix region in Quebec, known as La Malbaie or Murray Bay.
    Murray Bay, 1973CAD 1,975.00
    Henri Masson, Murray Bay, 1973
    CAD 1,975.00
  • This painting is a dance of colors and light, where the sleepy village nestles under a watchful mountain.
    St-Sixte, QC, 1980
  • Autumn Forest" by Henri Masson, circa 1970, is a vivid and dynamic representation of a forest in the fall.
    Autumn Forest, c 1970CAD 2,400.00
    Henri Masson, Autumn Forest, c 1970
    CAD 2,400.00
  • "End of Winter, Masham, Quebec" by Henri Masson, circa 1975, portrays a tranquil rural scene during the transition from winter to spring. Masson's work is known for its vibrant depiction of Canadian landscapes, and this painting is a beautiful example of his style.
    End of Winter, Masham, Quebec, c 1975
  • Henri Masson, Pointe Frégate, Gaspésie, c1979
    Pointe Frégate, Gaspésie, c1979
Biography

Masson’s “best works are full of detail and movement, with a broad range of colour, and convey a sense of immediacy to the viewer.”

Kathleen Laverty, 2008

 

Henri Masson (January 10, 1907-February 9, 1996) was born in Namur, Belgium, and his early years were spent as an apprenticeship in a metal engraving shop.  Developing his skills as a master engraver  contributed to his understanding of intricate details and craftsmanship, which would later influence his art..

 

In 1921, Masson made a significant move by immigrating to Ottawa, Canada. where he attended the Ottawa Art Association and studied under George Rowles, then attended the Ottawa Art Club.  One of the pivotal moments in his artistic development was his discovery of the Group of Seven's work at the National Gallery of Canada. The Group of Seven's unique approach to capturing the Canadian landscape resonated with him and became a source of inspiration.

 

Henri Masson; Near Aylmer, Quebec

Henri Masson; Near Aylmer, Quebec


Masson took courses in art glass and this helped him develop a colourful and distinctive style of painting. He became known for musical settings, still life, scenes of everyday life and depictions of Quebec villages.  His commitment to art was unwavering, and in 1945, he made the transition to becoming a full-time painter.

 

Henri Masson; Autumn Forest

Henri Masson; Autumn Forest

 

Henri Masson worked in oil, watercolour, charcoal, casein, red chalk, ink, and pastel. During his career he travelled to England, Greece, Russia, Belgium, France, Italy, Spain and Mexico.

 

Masson's artistic talent was recognized on an international scale when one of his paintings was reproduced by UNICEF. Additionally, he had the honour of having one of his paintings featured on an 8-cent Canadian postage stamp.

 

Henri Masson; Stamp

Henri Masson; Skaters in Hull, 1974 Canada Post stamp


Henri Masson’s work has been exhibited in major galleries and museums in Canada and around the world. His work was shown at the New York World’s Fair in 1939, the Sao Paolo Biennale in 1951 and the Quebec Pavilion in Osaka, Japan in 1970. Today, Masson is recognized as one of Canada's most important modernist painters.


Memberships: RCA, OSA, CGP, CSGA, CSPWC, FCA

 

Exhibitions: New York World’s Fair (1939), Sao Paolo Biennale (1951) Quebec Pavilion,

Osaka, Japan (1970), RCA (1935-40), AAM (1934, 1935, 1940), work is in collections at AEAC, AGO, EAG, HAG, MQ, NGC, VAG, WAG