Paper

Student Artwork Guide

First Snow, Algoma

Alexander Young Jackson, 1920

Name Class Date
Alexander Young Jackson, First Snow, Algoma (1920), McMichael Canadian Art Collection. Reproduced for reference; rights reserved by the rights holder. See this canvas under a moving light: the drawing, the true colour under the varnish, the bare pigment

The facts

Artist
Alexander Young Jackson originaluniqueart.com/en/artists/alexander-young-jackson/
Artist’s dates
1882 – 1974
Painted
1920
Medium
Oil
Original size
107 x 127 cm
Movement
Group of Seven
Period
Modern
Held at
McMichael Canadian Art Collection originaluniqueart.com/en/museums/mcmichael-canadian-art-collection-vaughan/
Notable elements
Snowy mountain tops, trees, and figures
Subject or theme
Serene winter landscape in Algoma

Copyright This work is still under copyright. Alexander Young Jackson died in 1974; copyright lasts 70 years after the artist’s death, so it remains in force until 2044. The image is shown here for classroom reference; rights remain with the rights holder.

Source: OriginalUniqueArt.com — accessed Sept. 28, 2026

First Snow, Algoma — Alexander Young Jackson Part 1 · The artwork

In context

First Snow, Algoma — Alexander Young Jackson

How big is it?

The original measures 107 × 127 cm (height × width), drawn here beside an adult of average height.

When was this painted?

  1. 1880
  2. 1890
  3. 1900
  4. 1910
  5. 1920
  6. 1930
  7. 1940
  8. 1950
  9. 1960
  10. 1970

Row above: the years. Row below: how old the artist was at the start and at the end of each span — 0 at birth, 92 at death.

Painted when the artist was 38. The artist lived to 92. 5 of the 9 dated works by this artist in our catalogue came earlier.

Shaded: the lifetime of Alexander Young Jackson (1882–1974) ▲ this work, 1920 every dated painting, decade by decade

Compare with

Pick one work above: name two things it shares with this one, and one thing that's different.

More works to set beside this one: originaluniqueart.com/en/art/similar/alexander-young-jackson-first-snow-algoma-D4GEG8-en/

Colours

Measured from the image

    Main colour

    Espresso #504235

    Catalogued palette

    • #504235
    • #746141
    • #2A2925
    • #A79D70

    These colours inside the artist’s whole palette Find other paintings by colour

    Palette
    Earthy The dominant colour family in the image.
    Main colour name
    Espresso
    Intensity
    Balanced How saturated and varied the colours are, from a single toned-down hue to many bright ones.
    Contrast
    Gentle How much the colours differ in lightness and saturation across the picture.
    Harmony
    Strong Color Unity How well the colours work together, from clashing to fully unified.
    Brightness
    Shadow How light or dark the picture reads overall, from deep shadow to bright highlight.
    Saturation
    Subtle Color How pure and strong the colours are, from near-grey to fully vivid.

    Where in the world is this painting looked at?

    • under 1%
    • 1–3%
    • 3–8%
    • 8–20%
    • 20% and over
    This painting alone has too few recorded visitors to map, so the plate reads every work by Alexander Young Jackson over the last twelve months — 1 countries in all. Where these figures come from

    The ten leading countries

    1. 1 China 100.0%

    Find the three darkest countries on the map. Is the museum that keeps this painting in any of them? Write down one reason people far away might look at it.

    The 2 most looked-at works by Alexander Young Jackson

    1. 1 Hills of Assisi, Italy, 1912 100.0%
    2. — First Snow, Algoma, 1920 this painting 0.0%

    Together these works take 100.0% of all the attention this artist's paintings received over the last twelve months. The catalogue holds 9 works by this artist, of which 1 were looked at at least once. This painting has not been looked at yet in that time — it closes the list without a rank. The same counts, month by month

    Bars measure attention, not quality. Pick the work at the top and this one: name one thing that might make a painting famous beyond how well it is painted.

    Source: OriginalUniqueArt.com — accessed Sept. 28, 2026

    First Snow, Algoma — Alexander Young Jackson Part 2 · In context

    About this artwork

    First Snow, Algoma — Alexander Young Jackson

    A Quiet Transformation in the Canadian Wilderness

    In the delicate transition between autumn’s final breath and winter’s icy grip, First Snow, Algoma captures a moment of profound stillness. Painted in 1920 by the legendary Canadian pioneer Alexander Young Jackson, this masterpiece invites the viewer into a serene, high-altitude sanctuary where the landscape is undergoing a silent metamorphosis. The scene depicts the rugged peaks of the Algoma region, where the first dusting of snow begins to cling to the dark, resilient silhouettes of the mountains. Through his masterful command of light and atmosphere, Jackson transforms a simple meteorological event into a poetic meditation on the changing seasons, offering a window into the soul of the Canadian North.

    The composition is anchored by a rhythmic arrangement of trees that guide the eye from the textured foreground toward the distant, snow-dusted summits. These arboreal sentinels, scattered with intentional spontaneity, create a sense of depth and scale that is both immersive and expansive. Amidst this vast natural theater, the subtle inclusion of two small figures—one near the center and another toward the periphery—serves as a poignant reminder of the human connection to the wild. These figures do not dominate the landscape; rather, they provide a sense of scale and a narrative thread of quiet companionship, suggesting that even in the face of nature's immense power, there is a place for human presence and contemplation.

    The Mastery of the Group of Seven Spirit

    As a founding member of the iconic Group of Seven, A.Y. Jackson brought a revolutionary approach to Canadian landscape painting, moving away from traditional European styles toward a more authentic, bold representation of his homeland. In First Snow, Algoma, one can observe his signature technique: a sophisticated use of color and texture that breathes life into the canvas. The palette is a masterful balance of cool, wintry tones—soft whites, muted grets, and icy blues—interspersed with the deep, earthy greens and browns of the hardy coniferous trees. His brushwork is purposeful, creating a tactile quality that allows the viewer to almost feel the crispness of the mountain air and the soft weight of the falling flakes.

    For the discerning collector or interior designer, this painting offers more than just aesthetic beauty; it provides an emotional anchor for any space. The artwork possesses a unique ability to instill a sense of tranquility and groundedness, making it an ideal centerpiece for rooms designed for reflection or sophisticated relaxation. Whether placed in a contemporary gallery-style setting or a classic study, the piece radiates a timeless elegance. Owning a high-quality reproduction of this work means bringing a fragment of Canada's artistic heritage into one's home, allowing the enduring spirit of the Algoma wilderness to inspire and calm the modern soul.

    Source: OriginalUniqueArt.com — accessed Sept. 28, 2026

    First Snow, Algoma — Alexander Young Jackson Part 3 · About this artwork

    Artist and museum

    Artist

    Alexander Young Jackson

    Born in Montreal, Canada

    **biography of a canadian art pioneer**

    alexander young jackson, a renowned canadian painter, was born on october 3, 1882, and passed away on april 5, 1974. as a founding member of the group of seven, jackson significantly contributed to the development of art in canada, bridging the artistic communities of montreal and toronto.

    **early life and career**

    jackson's artistic journey began with his training at the montreal art association. he later moved to europe, where he honed his skills. upon returning to canada, jackson became an integral part of the group of seven, a collective of artists seeking to promote canadian art and culture.

    **notable contributions**

    war artist (1917-19)*: jackson served as a war artist during world war i, capturing the essence of wartime through his art. teaching at banff school of fine arts (1943-49): he shared his expertise with upcoming artists, nurturing the next generation of canadian talent. **artist-in-residence at mcmichael canadian art collection**: in his later years, jackson was artist-in-residence at this esteemed institution.

    **selected works and locations**

    first snow, algoma (107 x 127 cm, oil, mcmichael canadian art collection, vaughan, canada) - a testament to jackson's landscape prowess.

    st. fidele, que. (21 x 26 cm, oil, mcmichael canadian art collection, vaughan, canada) - reflecting his ability to capture the essence of quebec.

    blue gentians (53 x 48 cm, oil, mcmichael canadian art collection, vaughan, canada) - a vibrant example of his floral compositions.

    **legacy and impact**

    jackson's contributions to the group of seven and his role in shaping canada's art landscape are undeniable. his work continues to inspire artists and art enthusiasts alike. *explore more at AllPaintingsStore: [https://AllPaintingsStore.com/@/alexander-young-jackson](https://AllPaintingsStore.com/@/alexander-young-jackson) - discover jackson's extensive collection. /en/art/show/art-d3cl2x-en/ - learn about the group of seven and their impact on canadian art. learn more about other renowned artists: [https://AllPaintingsStore.com/@/leonardodavinci](https://AllPaintingsStore.com/@/leonardodavinci) - explore the works of leonardo da vinci. * [https://AllPaintingsStore.com/@/vincentvangogh](https://AllPaintingsStore.com/@/vincentvangogh) - delve into the world of vincent van gogh.

    Museum

    McMichael Canadian Art Collection

    On show in Vaughan, Canada

    A Sanctuary of Spirit and Soil

    Nestled within the rolling hills and verdant forests of Kleinburg, Ontario, the McMichael Canadian Art Collection serves as a profound testament to the nation’s artistic soul. It is far more than a mere repository for canvases; it is an immersive journey into the very heart of Canadian identity, forged through the raw beauty of the landscape and the bold visions of its most iconic creators. Founded in 1955 by the passionate collectors Robert and Signe McMichael, the institution began as a personal tribute to the evocative works of Tom Thomson and the legendary Group of Seven. What was once a private dream has blossomed into a nationally recognized sanctuary, where the boundaries between the art on the walls and the nature outside seem to dissolve entirely.

    The essence of the McMichael lies in its unparalleled ability to capture the untamed spirit of the North. At the core of its collection are the masterpieces of the Group of Seven—artists such as Lawren Harris, A.Y. Jackson, and J.E.H. MacDonald—whose revolutionary styles redefined a national aesthetic. Their works pulsate with vibrant colors and rhythmic, bold brushstrokes that reflect not just a visual observation of the land, but a deep, emotional resonance with it. For the discerning collector or the interior designer seeking pieces that evoke strength and serenity, these works offer an incomparable connection to the rugged textures of the Canadian wilderness. Beyond these titans, the museum’s holdings gracefully extend into the rich traditions of Indigenous art, including exquisite archives of works on paper from Inuit artists, ensuring a narrative that is as diverse as the land itself.

    Where Architecture Meets the Wild

    The McMichael experience is defined by a harmonious blend of art and environment. The museum’s architecture does not impose itself upon the 40-hectare property; instead, it nestles into the landscape, mirroring the organic flow of the surrounding woods. This seamless integration allows visitors to wander through a beautifully curated sculpture garden where contemporary Canadian works stand as silent sentinels amidst native trees and wildflowers. As one meanders through the scenic walking trails that wind through meadows and forests, the museum becomes a living gallery. There is a poignant historical resonance found even in the grounds, particularly in the cemetery where several members of the Group of Seven are laid to rest, anchoring the collection to the very earth it depicts.

    The institution continues to push artistic boundaries through groundbreaking exhibitions that foster vital cultural dialogues. From retrospective celebrations of masters like Edwin Holgate and Kazuo Nakamura to contemporary installations that challenge our perceptions of space and identity, the McMichael remains a dynamic force in the art world. Recent highlights, such as the evocative

    Morrice in Venice

    exhibition, demonstrate the museum's ability to bridge the gap between the Canadian wilderness and international artistic movements. For any lover of art, the McMichael is not simply a destination for observation, but a place of quiet contemplation and profound discovery, preserving Canada’s luminous artistic legacy for generations to come.

    Where to read more

    Find this online

    QR code linking to the download page for First Snow, Algoma

    originaluniqueart.com/en/art/download/alexander-young-jackson-first-snow-algoma-D4GEG8-en/

    Cite this artwork

    MLA
    Jackson, Alexander Young. First Snow, Algoma. 1920, McMichael Canadian Art Collection. https://originaluniqueart.com/en/art/alexander-young-jackson-first-snow-algoma-D4GEG8-en/
    APA
    Jackson, Alexander Young (1920). First Snow, Algoma [Painting]. McMichael Canadian Art Collection. https://originaluniqueart.com/en/art/alexander-young-jackson-first-snow-algoma-D4GEG8-en/
    Chicago
    Alexander Young Jackson. First Snow, Algoma. 1920. McMichael Canadian Art Collection. https://originaluniqueart.com/en/art/alexander-young-jackson-first-snow-algoma-D4GEG8-en/
    Harvard
    Jackson, Alexander Young (1920) First Snow, Algoma. McMichael Canadian Art Collection. Available at: https://originaluniqueart.com/en/art/alexander-young-jackson-first-snow-algoma-D4GEG8-en/

    Source: OriginalUniqueArt.com — accessed Sept. 28, 2026

    First Snow, Algoma — Alexander Young Jackson Part 4 · Artist and museum

    Look closely

    First Snow, Algoma — Alexander Young Jackson

    Look closely

    Answer in your own words. There are no wrong answers here — only answers you can explain.

    1. What catches your eye first, and why?
    2. Which colours or shapes create the mood — and what is that mood?
    3. Our catalogue files this work under: snowfall, mountains, canadian landscape. Do you agree? What would you add, or take away?
    4. Look back at The Parlour (1910), earlier in this guide. Name two things it shares with this work, and one that is different.
    5. Alexander Young Jackson was about 38 when this was made. What in it looks like the work of an artist at that stage?

    Your response

    Write a short paragraph about this artwork. Use the facts from the earlier parts of this guide, and your answers above.

    Source: OriginalUniqueArt.com — accessed Sept. 28, 2026

    First Snow, Algoma — Alexander Young Jackson Part 5 · Look closely

    Questions & Answers

    Is "First Snow, Algoma" typical of what Alexander Young Jackson usually created?

    "First Snow, Algoma" depicts snowfall, mountains, canadian landscape, winter scene, nature, trees, algoma, while Alexander Young Jackson's recorded themes are canadian wilderness landscapes, group of seven style, nature and seasonal change, foundational canadian landscape art, early group of seven work. Comparing the two shows how the work relates to the artist's usual subjects.

    What atmosphere would a reproduction of "First Snow, Algoma" by Alexander Young Jackson bring to a room?

    The serene atmosphere of "First Snow, Algoma" by Alexander Young Jackson matches its recommended space: a living room.

    Who created "First Snow, Algoma" and what style is it in?

    Alexander Young Jackson created "First Snow, Algoma" within the Group of Seven movement.