A.Y. Jackson

Alexander Young Jackson (1882-1974) is a name that instantly conjures up images of our rugged northern landscape and the controversial Group of Seven. This is the first-ever full-length biography of one of Canada's most beloved characters, and the first to examine in one book the artist, outdoorsman, soldier, teacher, debater, writer, and outspoken defender of modern art. Jackson spent nearly 70 years travelling Canada on a lifelong quest to render his impressions of its diverse character on canvas and promote a vibrant, uniquely Canadian style of painting. From southern Alberta to Newfoundland, he covered more ground than any other artist - scoffing at harsh weather and hostile criticism along the way.A.Y. Jackson takes readers on a journey through Jackson's struggles and triumphs, from his childhood in Victorian-era Montreal through his final years as a living legend of Canadian art who thought nothing of camping in a tent on Baffin Island at age 82.