The Explorer and Artist
George Back was a British Royal Navy officer, explorer of the Canadian Arctic, naturalist, and artist. Born in Stockport, United Kingdom, he began his maritime journey as a volunteer in the frigate HMS Arethusa in 1808. During his time as a prisoner in Verdun, he practiced his skills as an artist, a talent he would later utilize to record his travels through the Canadian Arctic. His career included serving under John Franklin on several expeditions, including the Coppermine and Mackenzie River expeditions.
His naval career was marked by significant Arctic voyages, such as the Back River Expedition and the Frozen Strait Expedition aboard the HMS Terror. During the latter, the vessel became icebound for ten months. Back eventually rose to the rank of admiral. Beyond his naval duties, he was a writer, an entomologist, and served as the vice-president of the Royal Geographical Society.
Artistic Works and Legacy
As an accomplished artist, Back captured the scenery of the Canadian North through various mediums. His works include:
His ability to provide vigorous expression to the landscapes he encountered earned him high praise from historians. His artistic legacy is preserved through his detailed records of the Arctic and his various sketches and watercolours.
Questions & Answers
How can I see every artwork made by George Back?
Every work by George Back on this website can be browsed from the artist's All Artworks page.
Can I sort George Back's artworks by color?
The Spectral Index page organizes George Back's artworks by color.
How do I find works by George Back on a specific theme?
George Back's works can be explored by keyword on the artist's By Keywords page. Each keyword groups the related artworks.
What are the birthplace and birth year of George Back?
George Back was born in Stockport in 1796.
