Born in Bruce County, Ontario, David Milne (1882-1953) developed a unique artistic style, ranging from watercolour to oil and his innovative colour drypoint technique. A largely self-taught artist, and contemporary of the Group of Seven, Milne set out for New York City in 1903, exhibiting in the groundbreaking Armoury Show of 1913. Serving as a Canadian war artist in Britain, Belgium and northern France during WWI, he returned to upstate New York and cultivated his distinctive artistic style. In 1929, he returned to Canada, settling in rural Ontario. Following a year spent in Toronto, he spent the remainder of his life painting in relative seclusion, dividing his time between a cabin on the shores of Baptiste Lake and the small town of Uxbridge.
“The worst thing about porcupines is that they like to chew on canoes or paddles.” David Milne
“Courage makes people face the unknown and find their own paths.” David Milne
“If I am allowed to pick my own heaven, this is it.” David Milne
Launched on April 14, 2012 the David Milne Centre invites visitors to engage with the work of one of Canada’s most celebrated artists through a uniquely personal lens. Combining art with archives, and introducing interactive research tools, the Centre was an innovative first for the AGO.
Located in the southwest corner of the Gallery and overlooking Grange Park, the new 1,180 sq. ft. David Milne Centre, designed by Thomas Payne of KPMB Architects, spans two floors and is designed to bridge the interior and exterior spaces of the Gallery with its expansive windows. The airy, light-filled space pays homage to David Milne’s passion for nature and preference to work in isolation.
