signed lower centre
22 × 17 in (55.9 × 43.2 cm)
(including Buyer's Premium)
Private Collection, Toronto
By descent to Private Collection, Toronto
By descent to Private Collection, Midland
Frank Hans Johnston was a remarkably prolific painter, maintaining notable discipline and consistency throughout his career. Johnston joined fellow members of the Group of Seven on multiple painting expeditions to the rugged wilderness of the Algoma region. In December 1920, he included around two hundred paintings in an extensive solo exhibition at the T. Eaton Company. In the fall of 1921, Johnston left Toronto to assume the position of principal at the Winnipeg School of Art. His departure marked a break with the Group of Seven, a move which became official in 1924. Johnston’s motivation lay primarily in his desire to exhibit independently.
Silent Sentinels exemplifies Johnston’s mastery of light and pattern. Intermittent patches of teal-blue sky animate the background, contrasting with the muted, autumn tones of the trees and grass. The orange dabs of the shrubbery boldly draw the viewer’s gaze by standing forth from the cool tones of the distant hills and sky. The painting is expertly rendered with fine, precise brushstrokes, with delicate details adding vitality to every component of the picture. Over the course of his career, Johnston’s romantic style evolved and married with traditional realism.
