Charles Jones Way

Charles Jones Way

(1834 -1919)

Charles Jones Way, born on July 25, 1834, in Dartmouth, England, grew up in an artistic family with a rich legacy. His father, William Hopkins Way, was a marine painter and owner of the Artist’s Repository in Spithead, while other relatives, including his uncle, cousin, and niece, were also skilled artists. This creative environment fostered Way’s early interest and talent in drawing.

Recognizing his potential, Way’s father sent him to the prestigious Central Training School at Somerset House in London, where he began formal artistic education. The school later moved to Marlborough House and then South Kensington, where Way further honed his craft. His education was influenced by his family’s artistic tradition, and it was clear that his natural talent would lead him toward more advanced training.

At South Kensington, Way studied under the guidance of Richard Redgrave, RA, a leading figure in British art education. His course was meticulous and involved extensive practice, including studies in architectural designs, botanical subjects, and ornamental arrangements. Way had access to the esteemed Sheepshanks collection, featuring works by legendary British artists such as J.M.W. Turner, Constable, and Landseer. Inspired by these masters, Way frequently replicated Turner’s paintings. Over time, his focus began to shift, influenced by the ideas of art critic John Ruskin, who advocated for direct observation of nature. This approach was in contrast to Redgrave’s more rigid and systematic methods.

Way’s dedication and talent led to his completion of a prestigious program for Masters of Schools of Art, where he earned the highest academic distinction. Armed with these credentials, Way was appointed to Montreal in 1858 to introduce the South Kensington model of art education to British North America.

Upon arriving in Montreal, Way opened a studio in the Bonaventure Building on Commissioners Square, where he soon became a prominent figure in the local art scene. He began offering art classes and, within a year, split his time between teaching and painting. One of his students, the daughter of a prominent merchant, would later become his wife.

In 1860, when preparations were underway for the visit of Prince Albert Edward, the Prince of Wales, to Canada, Way seized the opportunity to promote the fine arts. He advocated for the establishment of a new arts organization in Montreal, which eventually led to the founding of the Art Association of Montreal. As the only artist on the committee, Way played a key role in shaping the organization’s creation. He also organized the first art exhibition at the newly opened Crystal Palace later that year.

CJ Way’s lasting impact on Montreal’s cultural landscape is still acknowledged today. His efforts to establish art education and foster the local art scene laid the foundation for Montreal’s development as an important cultural hub.