Horatio Walker (May 12, 1858 – September 27, 1938) was a renowned Canadian painter known for his mastery in oils and watercolours. His artwork often depicted the rustic charm of rural life in Canada, heavily influenced by the Barbizon school.  Born to Thomas and Jeanne Maurice Walker in Listowel, Canada West, Walker was raised in a nurturing environment that fostered his artistic talents. His father, a Yorkshire emigrant, encouraged young Horatio's interest in art, leading him to pursue drawing and painting from an early age. Walker's formal education ended at Listowel Public School, but his passion for art continued to grow.  At 15, Walker moved to Toronto to apprentice with the photographic firm Notman and Fraser. Here, he honed his skills under notable artists like Robert Ford Gagen and John Arthur Fraser. In 1876, Walker moved to the United States, where he became acquainted with the Barbizon school of painting. This exposure profoundly influenced his style, characterized by agrarian themes and a delicate use of light.  Walker opened his studio in New York City in 1878 and soon gained recognition. He helped found the Rochester Art Club and became a member of the American Watercolor Society in 1882. His career was marked by numerous accolades, including gold medals at prestigious exhibitions such as the World's Columbian Exposition in Chicago (1893) and the Pan-American Exposition in Buffalo (1901).  Walker's personal life was marked by tragedy, with the deaths of his daughter, son, and the institutionalization of his wife, Jeanette. Despite these hardships, his art remained consistent and celebrated. He spent his summers on Île d'Orléans and winters in New York City, capturing the serene landscapes that defined his legacy. Walker was an esteemed member of several art organizations, including the Royal Canadian Academy of Arts and the National Academy of Design. He served as president of the Canadian Art Club in 1915 and was awarded honorary doctorates from the University of Toronto and Université Laval. Horatio Walker's contributions to Canadian art have been recognized with numerous awards and he remains a celebrated figure in the art world. Horatio Walker's enduring legacy as a master painter continues to inspire and captivate art enthusiasts around the world.