Huronia Museum’s Unveiling: Rediscovering the Group of Seven’s Hidden Treasures and Welcoming a Franz Johnston Masterpiece

Midland, Ontario, February 17, 2024 – International Arts News-The Huronia Museum in Midland has recently unveiled ‘Title of Franz Johnston’s Masterpiece,’ a work by the renowned artist from the Group of Seven, enhancing its collection and solidifying its position as a premier destination for Group of Seven artworks. This acquisition marks a significant milestone for the museum, positioning it as the leading destination for Group of Seven artworks north of the McMichael Canadian Art Collection in Kleinburg.

 Group of Seven member Franz Johnston. File photo

The museum celebrated this historic acquisition with an event featuring a talk by Michael Janzen, a Toronto-based artist who provided insights into the legacy and influence of the Group of Seven on Canadian art. For the past 10 years, Janzen has exhibited, organized, and represented Canadian art at prestigious venues such as the Grand Palais and the Carrousel de Louvre in Paris, France, as well as in museums throughout China. Additionally, he chairs the International Federation of Art and Artists.

Photo: Crowd of people view art work at the Huronia museum (Dave Sullivan/CTV News)

The celebration also included the unveiling of never-before-seen artworks, offering visitors a glimpse into the creative minds that have shaped Canada’s artistic voice.

The event underscored the Huronia Museum’s commitment to preserving and celebrating the enduring legacy of the Group of Seven. Franz Johnston’s masterpiece, along with the newly revealed artworks, enriches the museum’s offerings, providing visitors with a unique exploration of Canada’s artistic heritage. The museum, home to the largest collection of Group of Seven artworks north of Kleinburg, plays a crucial role as a keeper of history and an active participant in the ongoing story of Canadian art.

Photo: CTV News Barrie

Special guest speaker Michael Janzen, an international visual fine artist with a deep connection to Georgian Bay, shared insights into the Group of Seven’s Georgian Bay artworks, including those of Midland’s associate artist W.J. Wood. Wood’s significant contributions to the Group of Seven’s legacy were also highlighted during the event. Another highlight of the event was the unveiling of a portrait of W.J. Wood by Arthur Lismer, a generous donation to the museum.

Nahanni Born, the museum’s executive director, underscored the profound significance of the collection, emphasizing the exchange of ideas among artists in the Georgian Bay, Midland area, and Penetanguishene, which played a pivotal role in the formation of the Group of Seven. The unveiled pieces, both from Johnston and other artists, capture the essence of the Canadian landscape and Georgian Bay’s history.

The event highlighted the museum’s dedication to preserving and celebrating the rich tapestry of Canadian art history. The acquisition of Johnston’s work and the unveiling of hidden treasures further solidify the Huronia Museum’s role in enriching the cultural tapestry and inviting visitors to explore the stories and landscapes that have shaped Canada.

As the sun set on a day of reflection, celebration, and discovery, the latest additions to the Huronia Museum stand as a beacon of Canadian artistry and history. With its extensive collection of Group of Seven artworks, the museum invites future generations to appreciate the profound beauty and significance of Canadian art.