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play in your free time Art Throb Oh, Canada Right: Though originally a follower of impression- ism, Lawren Harris moved by Pete Lundberg love for Canadian art, particularly the paintings done by “Th e Group of Seven.” Formed in 1919, the Group of Seven J sought to prove the Canadian landscape was a worthy subject. Th e safer, pleasing landscapes of “civilized” lands depicted in European art were more appreciated at the time than the rugged terrain of the provinces. Th ese painters set out to glo- rify the natural beauty of their land. To create their pieces, the artists would embark on long expeditions to remote areas, bringing with them hundreds of wood panels to make sketches of what they saw. Back in their studios, the quick oil stud- ies were used as inspiration to create larger paintings, though the original sketches are often more compelling. Th eir fi rst exhibit in 1920 got mixed reviews, even outrage. A conservative public called the members “artistic perverts” and uly 1 is Canada Day. Perhaps since it shares the date with my birthday, the day has always reminded me of my away from colorful, detailed brushwork toward subdued geometric shapes. The stark Canadian landscape proved the perfect subject. Left: Unsuccessful as a portrait painter because of his non-conformist personality, Fred Varley was more comfortable painting the landscape he revered. This enormous oil, over fi ve feet long, beautifully captures Georgian Bay during a storm. businesses worried that showing the works abroad would adversely affect immigration. After more exhibitions, and the support of key patrons, their style became more under- stood and appreciated. You can see magnifi cent collections from the group in Toronto or Ottawa, while sev- eral wonderful books of their works have been published as well. Th ough painted nearly a century ago, these pieces remain a vital contribution to the greater landscape of art. Pete Lundberg is not only an art lover but also the owner of Janus Galleries in Madison. Book Club Local authors deliver four delightful summer reads The Quilter’s Apprentice By Jennifer Chiaverini In the fi rst book of the Elm Creek Quilts series, a woman takes a temporary housekeeping job for a master quilter, who soon shares not only her quilting secrets but deep personal truths as well. Piecing together family, friendship and forgiveness, Chiaverini weaves a cozy story to curl up with. Published by Simon and Schuster, $14 Fixing Forever Broken By Tamara Lyon A young writer prepares to announce her engagement to her parents only to discover her father dead and her mother missing. Packed with family secrets and romantic drama, this story will stick with you long after the last page is turned. Published by Comfort Publishing, $15 In Love with Jerzy Kosinski By Agate Nesaule A Latvian immigrant triumphs over confi nement—once in her home country and again in a controlling marriage. As she learns to drive, moves to Madison and falls in love, you’ll get carried along on her journey of self-discovery. Published by Terrace Books, $25 The Typewriter Satyr By Dwight Allen In the heart of Wisconsin, a typewriter repairman, father and husband falls in love with a quirky radio host when she comes to get a typewriter fi xed. With a cast of loveable and eccentric characters, this novel will make you feel right at home. Published by The University of Wisconsin Press, $25 70 BRAVA Magazine July 2011