One of three new titles in the Firefly Books-National Film Board of Canada partnership.
“My mission is to show Canadians, and the world, a little of our country. The more they see something of Canada’s grandeur and diversity of its people, the more they will appreciate it. I will not rest a minute until my mission is accomplished.”
— George Hunter, photographer
Nobody took more photos of 20th-century Canada than George Hunter. His photos are in atlases, textbooks, encyclopedias and magazines. They’re in galleries, museums and public archives, on old postage stamps and currency.
Despite a 70-year career that saw Hunter cross Canada more than 100 times on photographic expeditions, he never achieved widespread fame or critical acclaim. Mostly this is because Hunter was a photographer for hire to commercial entities and the government. His assignments were, ultimately, to document progress.
Hunter’s catalogue represents a chronology of postwar Canada, beginning with horse-drawn hay wagons and ending with modern semi trailers on multi-lane highways. He captured portraits of Canadians at work, and also became a pilot to further his career. His aerial shots of billowing smokestacks, open-pit mines, newly minted expressways and vast log booms dominate his portfolio, which to modern eyes is equal parts majestic and nostalgic. His is a portrait of a young country maturing into an industrial force; a landscape as shaped by the people.
For information on the National Film Board of Canada visit www.nfb.ca.
Dive into the captivating world of 20th-century Canada through the lens of George Hunter, one of the nation's most prolific yet unsung photographers. "George Hunter's Canada: Iconic Images from Canada's Most Prolific Photographer (NFB Series)" offers a stunning visual journey across a rapidly evolving landscape, capturing the essence of a nation forging its identity. This hardcover edition, published in partnership with the National Film Board of Canada, unveils a carefully curated collection of Hunter's most compelling work, offering a unique perspective on Canada's industrial and social transformation. While Hunter may not be a household name, his images are deeply ingrained in the collective Canadian memory. His photographs graced textbooks, atlases, and even currency, quietly shaping our perception of the country. This book seeks to rectify his relative anonymity, celebrating his remarkable 70-year career and the sheer volume of his photographic output. He tirelessly traversed the country, capturing the nuances of Canadian life, from its bustling cities to its remote landscapes. More than just a collection of pretty pictures, "George Hunter's Canada" presents a historical narrative told through striking visuals. Hunter's lens documented the transition from horse-drawn carriages to modern highways, chronicling the nation's shift towards industrialization. His aerial photographs, often depicting billowing smokestacks and sprawling industrial complexes, are both majestic and tinged with nostalgia, reflecting a bygone era of rapid growth and development. These images offer a powerful commentary on the impact of progress on the Canadian landscape. The book also highlights Hunter's skill as a portrait photographer, capturing the faces of Canadians at work and play. He immortalized the everyday lives of ordinary citizens, providing invaluable insights into the social fabric of the time. His passion for capturing the Canadian spirit led him to become a pilot, allowing him to capture unique aerial perspectives that further enhanced his photographic artistry. "George Hunter's Canada" is not just a tribute to a talented photographer; it is a visual love letter to Canada itself. It is a must-have for anyone interested in Canadian history, photography, or the art of visual storytelling. This collection serves as a valuable historical document and a testament to the enduring power of photography to capture the essence of a nation. Explore the grandeur and diversity of Canada through the eyes of a true photographic pioneer. Discover the Canada you thought you knew, and gain a newfound appreciation for the artistry and dedication of George Hunter.