Davies Island, Cedar Lake, Algonquin Park, 1946

Gordon A. Davies, Toronto By descent to the present Private Collection, Ontario

A commercial artist based in Toronto during the early part of the 20th century, Gordon Albert Davies (1890-1982) was a friend and associate of several prominent Canadian artists, including members of the Group of Seven. The Davies family cottage was located on Cedar Lake in Algonquin Park and Gordon and Doris Davies often hosted the family’s close friends in the artistic community, including Charles and Louise Comfort. The cottage and island remained in care of the Davies family until their lease with the park expired in 1999, the land then becoming the property of the Ontario provincial government. “Davies Island, Cedar Lake, Algonquin Park” depicts the tranquil lake view with strong light and dark contrasts. The composition has a clear, graphic quality arranged with strong geometry. The light ripple on the water’s surface adds energy to the scene.