Walker's, auction, Ottawa, 26 March 2003, lot 241
Private Collection, Ottawa
Literature
Sir Frederick Banting, 'Opening Remarks', "International and Science Year", Canadian National Exhibition, Toronto, 1923
After his scientific success as co-discoverer of insulin, painting became an escape from the fame and attention that Dr. Frederick Banting disliked so intensely. With an affinity for watercolours and landscape painting, he often thought about retiring from medicine to become a full-time artist. Banting found inspiration in the wilderness, often venturing into the forest with his sketch box, accompanied by his friend and fellow artist A.Y. Jackson. On these sketching excursions, he would often go by the pseudonym “Fred Grant,” dedicating his focus to creating sensitively observed works of art.
Banting’s scientific background and artistic sensibilities merge in his work. "Forest Pool, Spring Day" encapsulates the artist’s deep reverence for nature, his thick application of paint and simplified forms suggesting both movement and a sense of solitude. The bold, expressive brushstrokes bring the trees to life, their twisting trunks and vibrant foliage swaying as if caught in a passing breeze. The rocky foreground anchors the scene, emphasizing the ruggedness of the land and the untouched beauty of Canada’s natural landscape. “Scientific research” Banting said, “is nothing more than the endeavour to unfold the secrets of nature.” Driven and inspired by a love of discovery, Banting invites the viewer to uncover the raw beauty of the forest landscape stretching beyond the horizon.
