Tom Hodgson
(1924–)
(–2006)
Tom Hodgson
1924–2006
Thomas Hodgson (1924–2006) was a celebrated Canadian artist from the post-war era, known for his affiliation with the Painters Eleven and his prowess as a professional sprint canoeist. Born and raised on Toronto’s Centre Island, Hodgson honed his skills as both a champion canoeist and an abstract expressionist painter. He represented Canada in canoeing, competing in the Olympic Games in Helsinki (1952) and again at the Melbourne Olympic Games (1956).
Hodgson’s interest in art was nurtured during his participation in art classes conducted by the AGO (Art Gallery of Ontario). After serving in the Canadian Air Force, he pursued formal art education at the Ontario College of Art, graduating in 1946, and ventured into the advertising industry. Initially, Hodgson thrived as a successful freelance illustrator, layout artist, and art director. Nevertheless, his artistic journey unfolded when he became associated with organizations such as the Ontario Society of Artists, the Royal Canadian Academy of Arts, the Canadian Group of Painters, and the Canadian Society of Painters in Watercolors.
His unique and vibrant use of colors, coupled with the growing interest in non-figurative art during that period, earned him recognition and opportunities to exhibit his works at various art groups’ shows. One noteworthy event was his participation in the historically significant “Abstracts at Home” art show, organized by Painters Eleven and held at the Simpson's department store in 1953. Additionally, Hodgson had solo exhibitions at renowned venues like the Douglas Duncan Picture Loan Society and Hart House Gallery at the University of Toronto, as well as the Carnegie Museum of Art in Pittsburgh in 1955.