Toronto Art Appraisal

We had the pleasure recently to prepare a Toronto Art Appraisal of an original Canadian oil painting by Sir Frederick Grant Banting. Known primarily for his important contributions to medical science, his love and passion for the arts as well as his talent, allowed him to become a very well accomplished artist as well, although not nearly as well recognized or known as his place in medical science.

Farmhouse by a Hill, by Sir Frederick Grant Banting. Oil on panel. 8" x 10½"

Toronto Art Appraisal

Sir Frederick Grant Banting, primarily known for his groundbreaking discovery of insulin and his contributions to medical science, led a life filled with extraordinary achievements. However, while Banting is celebrated as a pioneer in the field of medicine, few people are aware of his endeavors in the arts, particularly his passion for painting. His artistic abilities provided an intriguing contrast to his scientific career and reveal an additional, often overlooked side of his personality.

Frederick Banting was born on November 14, 1891, in Alliston, Ontario, Canada. Though he would later become a central figure in the fight against diabetes with his discovery of insulin, Banting’s early years were marked by a love for art and the visual world. Growing up, he was encouraged to pursue various interests, but his inclination towards art remained strong even as he navigated the rigorous demands of medicine. His creative inclinations would later manifest through his work as a painter, a hobby that would bring him solace and expression alongside his demanding medical career.

Banting's introduction to painting came when he enrolled at the University of Toronto. He initially studied art and science with equal enthusiasm, but as his academic journey progressed, he made a significant turn toward medicine. His education in the sciences would eventually overshadow his artistic interests, but he retained an appreciation for visual arts. Even as he began his medical training and began to move forward in his career as a surgeon, Banting’s passion for painting would continue to develop.

Although his career in medicine took center stage, Banting did not abandon art entirely. His connection to painting deepened during his time in the First World War, where he served as a medical officer. After being injured in battle, Banting found solace and therapeutic release in painting. His time recovering from his war injuries provided the space he needed to explore the world of art in greater depth. While stationed in France during the war, Banting took to painting landscapes and still lifes, finding in these subjects a way to express himself and cope with the trauma he had witnessed. His wartime paintings were infused with both a sense of melancholy and a reflective beauty that mirrored the tumultuous emotions he was processing during this time.

The reverse side of the painting features the artist's use of the panel as his palette where he mixed the paint colours, as well as the signed certification stamp of his wife, Lady Henrietta E. Banting

Banting’s dedication to painting would persist throughout his life. After the war, he returned to his medical career, but he continued to refine his artistic skills. His enthusiasm for painting led him to study under some of the top artists of the time. Notably, Banting took painting lessons from members of the Canadian Group of Seven, including the renowned artist Franklin Carmichael. The Group of Seven, known for their bold landscapes that emphasized the beauty of Canada’s wilderness, inspired Banting to pursue his artistic ambitions more seriously.

His artistic style was distinctly shaped by these influences. Banting was drawn to the natural world, and many of his works reflect his deep connection to nature and his desire to capture its raw, untamed beauty. His landscapes, like those of the Group of Seven, were often vibrant and full of life, with bold strokes and vivid colors. These works evoke a strong sense of place, with an emphasis on Canada’s diverse scenery. Banting’s connection to the land, especially the Canadian wilderness, played a significant role in shaping his artistic vision. The rugged terrain of his native Ontario, along with the wide-open spaces he encountered during his travels, provided him with a never-ending source of inspiration.

While his landscapes were captivating, Banting was also known for his portraiture. His paintings of people were more personal and introspective. Banting’s ability to capture the human form with a nuanced understanding of light and shadow further demonstrated his artistic skill. His portraits conveyed a sense of character, and his intimate representations of his subjects revealed a deep understanding of human nature. These works, though often less publicized than his landscapes, were significant aspects of his broader artistic portfolio.

Banting’s artistic pursuits were not confined to private expression. He shared his works with the public, contributing to exhibitions and events. His paintings were shown at notable art galleries, and he garnered recognition within Canadian artistic circles. Though his fame as a scientist often overshadowed his artistic career, Banting’s work as a painter still earned him admiration. In 1937, he held a successful solo art exhibition at the Art Gallery of Ontario. The exhibition was well-received, showcasing his ability to merge scientific precision with artistic creativity. For many, this exhibit revealed Banting’s versatility and highlighted the creative side of a man who was already a household name due to his medical accomplishments.

Interestingly, Banting’s approach to art reflected his scientific mindset. His dedication to mastering the craft of painting was akin to his approach to medicine. He was methodical in his study of the techniques of his peers, and his growth as an artist was the result of focused effort and consistent practice. Banting’s ability to approach art with the same discipline and precision that made him an extraordinary scientist showed the extent to which he could balance both creativity and intellect. This duality of interests—his passion for both art and science—allowed him to develop a distinctive personal style that merged the analytical with the expressive.

Despite his fame as a scientist, Banting faced some challenges in being fully recognized as an artist. At times, he felt that his artistic talents were downplayed or overshadowed by his scientific achievements. It’s clear that Banting struggled to reconcile his roles as both a scientist and an artist. His work in medicine, especially his discovery of insulin and his work on diabetes, brought him immense fame, but he was determined not to let his artistic side be overshadowed. In fact, the two pursuits seemed to complement one another—his painting allowed him an emotional outlet that provided balance to his intense scientific work. His creative pursuits, particularly painting, were a form of personal expression and a means of dealing with the psychological toll that came with his responsibilities as a doctor.

Throughout his life, Banting’s identity as both a scientist and an artist became more entwined. His works offer an intriguing glimpse into his inner world—one that was characterized by a mixture of logic, empathy, and a profound connection to the beauty of nature. His ability to express himself visually was a testament to the depth of his creativity, and it offered an alternative, enriching perspective on the personality of a man who made history in the medical field.

Frederick Banting passed away tragically in a plane crash on February 21, 1941, at the age of 49. His contributions to science, particularly in the development of insulin, have had an immeasurable impact on the world. However, his work as an artist is equally deserving of recognition. Banting’s paintings remain a testament to his versatility, and they reveal a side of him that many people may not be aware of. Today, his artistic legacy is celebrated in art galleries and exhibitions, providing a glimpse into the heart and soul of a man whose passions extended far beyond his medical career.

In conclusion, Sir Frederick Grant Banting was not just a medical pioneer; he was also an artist whose works captured the essence of the Canadian landscape and the human spirit. His passion for painting provided him with an emotional outlet and a means of personal expression. Banting’s artistic contributions are as important as his scientific achievements, offering us a more comprehensive understanding of the man behind the discovery of insulin.