Trained in art at the Central Technical School in Toronto, Wilson began work in commercial art at Brigden's, later moving to Sampson-Matthews. Working alongside Franklin Carmichael and A.J. Casson, this formative experience in graphic illustration and design with two artistic forerunners allowed Wilson to develop his own skills in a variety of mediums. His educational and early career experience provided the artist a solid foundation to work and develop his own unique style.
Wilson dabbled in figurative, abstract landscape and formal abstraction throughout his career. His highly abstract works are testament to a finite period for the artist's development and are among the most sought after. “Tribute to the Group of Seven” showcases the artist's work in more hard edge abstraction, favouring an energetic monotone of red hues. Evidence of knife work is present which gives warm texture and depth to the composition. The jewel-like patches of pigment are divided in jagged bands of colour adding movement to the compositional design. Perhaps, as the title suggests, Wilson was paying homage to the Group of Seven and their history making renderings of the Canadian landscapes imbued with vibrancy and energy. Stripping away the landscape and narrative, Wilson harnesses the same vigour in this bold work.
