George Thomson Canadian, 1868-1965
Further images
George Thomson was a gifted landscape painter whose work, though often overshadowed by his younger brother Tom Thomson, stands on its own as an important contribution to Canadian art. The End of the Day, Dwight captures the stillness of an evening sky over Ontario’s Lake of Bays region, where Thomson spent many summers painting. Painted circa 1945, this scene reflects his poetic approach to landscape paintings, marked by soft light, rich tones, and a sensitivity to nature’s changing moods. Unlike the bolder, modernist stylings of the Group of Seven, George Thomson’s work draws more from tonalism and impressionism, revealing a love of atmosphere. His long career, spanning nearly a century, shows an artist who remained devoted to depicting the beauty of the Canadian landscape.
Dwight is a small, picturesque community in Ontario’s Muskoka region, near the eastern edge of Lake of Bays. Known for its natural beauty, the area is characterized by hills, dense forests, and shorelines that have long inspired artists, writers, and vacationers alike. In the early 20th century, Dwight became a popular retreat for painters seeking to capture Northern Ontario. Dwight offered artists like George Thomson a rich subject, making it a significant part of Canada’s artistic landscape.
- The Laing Galleries operated at 60 Bloor Street East between 1941 and 1950, which helps us date this painting.
Provenance
- Laing Fine Art Galleries, Toronto- signed and titled on reverse