Lionel LeMoine Fitzgerald (1890-1956)
Lionel LeMoine Fitzgerald, Late Fall, Manitoba, 1917.
Lionel LeMoine Fitzgerald was born on March, 17, 1890, and died on August, 5, 1956, in Winnipeg. He was always painting, drawing and sketching. He joins the Group of Seven in 1932, but was initially a bank messenger and worked in real estate.
FitzGerald was a dedicated educator, significantly influencing the art scene in Winnipeg and beyond. His role as an art teacher and later as the principal of the Winnipeg School of Art (1929) helped shape the next generation of Canadian artists. After his death, a collection of self-portraits and nude drawings was discovered, which was unexpected for the typically reserved painter.
Lionel’s contributions and characteristics are different from the other members of the Group of Seven:
FitzGerald focused on the landscapes and urban scenes of Manitoba. His work offers a unique perspective on the Canadian Prairies, providing a different regional flavor.
His style is characterized by a more subdued and contemplative approach compared to the bold and vibrant works of the Group of Seven. His paintings often feature delicate brushwork, a softer palette, and a meticulous attention to detail.
He has been influenced by modernist principles, incorporating elements of abstraction and a strong sense of design into his work. This modernist approach set him apart from the more traditional landscape painting techniques favored by most of the Group of Seven.
FitzGerald also included urban and suburban scenes in his repertoire, reflecting his environment in Winnipeg. His work often depicted everyday life, architecture, and gardens, providing a broader scope of subject matter.
