The Tom Thomson Art Gallery in Owen Sound is asking the public to view photos they received from a local resident that included possible images of Tom Thomson.
The Gallery is hoping people can help decide if the pictures really do include images of the famous artist.
The collection of images was brought to the gallery's Living Histories Photo Sharing Project, with local historian Richard J. Thomas in September. Local resident Bill Morrison said the story passed down verbally in his family said his great-grandfather William Morrison was good friends with Thomson at the turn of the 20th century. The family lore indicates that William and Thomson shared a mutual love of fishing, hunting, and the outdoors.
The Tom Thomson Art Gallery is presenting these original images for public view and debate as part of the Living Histories exhibition which features historic photographs of Owen Sound taken by J. James between 1905 and 1960.
The public is invited to compare the known images of Tom Thomson with the Morrison images and decide for themselves by casting a vote.
The Gallery meantime is open for holiday hours between noon and 4 p.m. Friday, December 29 and Saturday, December 30.
“Tom Thomson is one of the most enigmatic Canadian artists, and these historic images provide a possible glimpse into his life, as well as a deeper look at our region at the turn of the 20th century," said Mayor Ian Boddy. " I encourage photography, history, and art enthusiasts alike to take some time to appreciate these photographs and learn a little bit more about Owen Sound’s past in the process.”
“Having a chance to consider the possibility that these images are of Tom Thomson is quite compelling. Even if we can never prove it one way or another, comparing images this way is a rare opportunity to take a closer look at the man who was the most influential artist in Canadian art history," said Aidan Ware, Director and Chief Curator. "Perhaps through this exercise, we gain another small piece of him, even if it is just to reside in the public imagination.”
Living Histories runs until March 16 at the Tom Thomson Art Gallery.
People can cast their vote here.
