Owen Staples, also known as Owen Staples and Owen Poe Staples, was a Canadian painter, etcher, pastelist, political cartoonist, author, musician and naturalist. Born on September 3, 1866, in Rochester, New York, Staples moved to Canada as a child with his family, and he grew up in Toronto. His artistic talent became evident early on, and he was apprenticed to the renowned Canadian artist J.W.L. Forster when he was just 13 years old.
Staples' work is often associated with the city of Toronto, which served as a central subject for many of his pieces. He is known for his realistic depictions of Toronto's landscapes, architecture, and bustling city life during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. His attention to detail and his ability to capture the changing light and seasons have made his works valuable records of the city's history.
In addition to his paintings, Staples was a staff artist and later political cartoonist for the Toronto News, and after its merger, for the Toronto Star. He worked for The Star for over 40 years, where his illustrations, cartoons, and panoramic views of the city helped to shape the visual identity of Toronto in the minds of its readers.
As an author, Staples wrote and illustrated 'Picture Book of Earlier Toronto,' which provided a visual history of the city. He also had a keen interest in music and natural history, which often found its way into his artistic work, informing his subject matter and approach to composition and color.
Owen Staples was also involved in the arts community in Toronto, mentoring younger artists and participating in various exhibitions. His contributions to Canadian art were significant, and his works are held in many collections, both public and private, and continue to be appreciated for their historic value and artistic merit.
Owen B. Staples passed away in Toronto on July 6, 1949. His legacy as an illustrator, painter, and historian remains influential, particularly in the way he captured the essence and development of Toronto and its environs through art.
