Farquhar Mcgillivr. Knowles Paintings

Farquhar McGillivray Knowles was a Canadian painter and etcher born on August 22, 1859, in Syracuse, New York. He moved to Canada with his family in the early 1860s, and they eventually settled in Ottawa. Knowles demonstrated artistic talent at a young age and began his formal art education at the Ottawa Art School. He furthered his training in New York and Paris, where he was influenced by the Impressionist movement, which was prominent in the late 19th century.

Farquhar McGillivray Knowles is best known for his marine paintings, etchings, and watercolors that captured the essence of the Canadian landscape and seascapes. His work often depicted ships and the bustling activity of ports, characterized by vibrant light and color. He was adept at conveying the mood and atmosphere of a scene, which made his work popular with Canadian art enthusiasts of his time.

In addition to his painting career, Knowles was also dedicated to art education. He taught at the Ontario School of Art where he influenced a generation of young Canadian artists. His commitment to the arts extended beyond teaching; he was one of the founding members of the Toronto Art Students League, a group that played a significant role in the development of the arts community in Toronto during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Farquhar McGillivray Knowles’ contributions to Canadian art were recognized during his lifetime. He was elected as a member of the Royal Canadian Academy of Arts and participated in various exhibitions, both in Canada and abroad. His work is part of several important collections, including those of the National Gallery of Canada and the Art Gallery of Ontario.

Knowles continued to paint and contribute to the Canadian art scene until his passing on April 9, 1932, in Toronto. His legacy lives on through his art, which remains an important part of Canada's cultural heritage and continues to be appreciated by art historians and collectors alike.