John Young Johnstone was a Canadian artist known for his landscape paintings and his work as a commercial artist. Born on April 8, 1887, in Montreal, Quebec, Johnstone grew up in a period of burgeoning artistic activity in Canada. Although not as widely known as some of his contemporaries, Johnstone made a significant contribution to the Canadian art scene during his relatively short life.
Johnstone’s early life is somewhat obscure, but he is believed to have studied at the Art Association of Montreal under the tutelage of William Brymner, a prominent Canadian artist of the time. Brymner's influence would be seen in the younger artist's work, which often focused on the Canadian landscape and rural scenes.
As a commercial artist, Johnstone worked for various magazines and publications, which was a common way for artists to support themselves financially during that era. His commercial work included illustrations and graphic designs that were recognized for their quality and craftsmanship.
In his fine art career, Johnstone was known for his impressionistic style, characterized by loose brushwork and a vibrant color palette. His landscapes often depicted the Canadian wilderness and rural environments, capturing the changing seasons and the unique light qualities of the northern landscape.
Throughout his career, Johnstone exhibited his work at various venues, including the Art Association of Montreal and the Royal Canadian Academy of Arts. His paintings were well-received, and he gained a respectable following among art collectors and enthusiasts.
Tragically, Johnstone's life was cut short when he died at the age of 43 on June 23, 1930, in Montreal. His premature death meant that his artistic output was limited, but his existing works continue to be appreciated by those interested in Canadian art history. Johnstone's paintings can be found in several Canadian art collections, including the National Gallery of Canada, which serves as a testament to his talent and his contribution to the arts in Canada.
