Adam Sherriff-Scott
(1887 - 1980)
Canadian painter born in Scotland , RCA , member of the Beaver Hall Group
Adam Sherriff Scott was born in Perth, Scotland in 1887. He began his journey into the world of art at the Edinburgh School of Art in 1903. However, his remarkable talent led to a significant turning point in his artistic pursuit when he was awarded the prestigious Allen-Fraser Scholarship. This scholarship allowed him to extend his studies for four additional years at the renowned Allen-Fraser Institute, which was known for nurturing young, exceptional artists. Adam was one of only ten selected for this coveted scholarship and honed his artistic skills under the tutelage of the distinguished George Harcourt, A.R.A. Following this transformative period, Adam Sherriff Scott continued to refine his artistic abilities by pursuing further studies at the renowned Slade School in London, where he studied under the mentorship of the illustrious Henry Tonks. He also enriched his artistic knowledge through visits to the National Gallery and the Tate Gallery in London, where he immersed himself in the world's artistic treasures. In 1912, Adam Sherriff Scott embarked on a momentous transatlantic journey to Canada. Initially settling in Brandon, Manitoba, he later moved to Calgary, Alberta, where he spent three pivotal years. During this period, he worked for an American patron who commissioned him to create expansive paintings depicting the grand landscapes of the Canadian West, intended for sale to real estate agents. In 1915, following the advice of his patron, Scott made a momentous decision to relocate to Montreal, Quebec, where he would spend the rest of his life. In Montreal, he became a prominent member of the renowned Beaver Hall Hill Group, alongside eminent artists such as Lilias Torrance Newton, Randolph Hewton, Edwin Holgate, and Robert Pilot.This group was known for its unique perspective on Canadian urban life and modernity, distinguishing itself from the more wilderness-focused style of Canada's Group of Seven. The outbreak of World War I summoned Adam Sherriff Scott to serve in the Canadian armed forces. His dedication and courage were evident during his service, and he returned in 1919 with the rank of acting Captain. Over the years, Scott was sought after for various artistic commissions, including portraits and posters for the Canadian Pacific Railway and the Southam Press. In the 1920s, he spent six years living among the Inuit, capturing their captivating life and culture in his paintings. In recognition of his exceptional contributions to Canadian art, Adam Sherriff Scott was elected a member of the ARCA (Associate of the Royal Canadian Academy) in 1935, and in 1944, he achieved full membership in the Royal Canadian Academy. His passion, versatile talent, and unwavering dedication to the art world left an indelible mark on the Canadian art scene. Additionally, he established the Adam Sherriff-Scott School of Fine Art, where he imparted his knowledge by teaching drawing and painting, ensuring the perpetuation of his artistic legacy for future generations.