Murray Bay

Henri Masson

This oil on canvas painting by Henri Masson captures the beautiful landscape of Murray Bay located in Quebec. Masson is a famous painter known for his vibrant Canadian landscapes. He was born in Belgium in 1907 and when he was young he spent years as an apprentice in a metal engraving shop where he later became a master engraver.

 

In 1921, Masson immigrated to Ottawa where he attended the Ottawa Art Association and studied under George Rowles.  When Masson saw the Group of Seven’s work in the National Gallery of Canada, he was enamoured with it, and they became a source of inspiration. Masson believed in the unity of nature and art, and this is reflected in his work which had central themes ranging from landscapes to cityscapes.