*Alfred J. Casson, A Breezy Day, 1926, Oil on Canvas.*

Alfred Joseph Casson, born on May 17, 1898, and died on February, 20, 1992, in Toronto, was a renowned painter. In 1919, he started working in a Toronto commercial art studio as Carmichael’s apprentice. Franklin was the one who took him sketching, camping, and introduced him to the members of the Group of Seven. In 1926, Casson was invited to join the Group as a replacement of Franz Johnston.

Casson's style consistently embodied Harris's teachings about simplification and the removal of all nonessentials. He spent many years as the chief designer for the printing firm Sampson-Matthews. His contributions significantly impacted the history of graphic design in Canada. Alongside, he was the president of the Royal Canadian Academic of Arts (1948), and the president of the Ontario Society of Artists (1941). On top of that, his remembrance is also based on his support of fellow artists, charitable organizations and his assistance to student and scholars.

Alfred has several unique aspects in his work and artistic focus, that differentiate him from the co-members:

Casson often depicted rural villages, small towns, and urban scenes. His work highlights the charm and character of Canada's inhabited landscapes, providing a different perspective on the country’s environment.
He had a distinctive style characterized by geometric and simplified forms. His landscapes often feature clean lines and structured compositions, creating a sense of order and clarity. This approach contrasts with the more fluid and impressionistic styles of some other Group of Seven members.
Alfred was particularly skilled in capturing atmospheric effects such as light, shadow, and weather conditions. His ability to portray the subtleties of the atmosphere added a unique dimension to his landscapes, emphasizing mood and the interplay of natural elements.
While many Group of Seven artists primarily worked with oils, Casson was known for his proficiency with watercolors. His mastery of this medium allowed him to explore delicate tonal variations and achieve a luminous quality in his paintings.