William Winter was born in Winnipeg and was described as a romantic painter of urban life as he enjoyed capturing people in their ordinary pursuits. He had a particular interest in children's activity and the ballet. He is one of the few artists who have been able to bring to life the movement and spirit of his subjects especially in depicting his sensitivity for children. Winter studied art under two members of the Group of Seven, Franz Johnston and Lionel FitzGerald at the Winnipeg School of Art from 1923-1929. From 1930 to 1935 he worked as a commercial artist at Brigden's in Winnipeg while continuing to study art. He moved to Toronto in 1937 and established an advertising firm called "Wookey, Winter, Bush" with Lesley Wookey and Jack Bush in 1942. His commercial work included painting cover illustrations for New World Illustrated and McLean's magazine. By 1960 Winter had completed a number of mural commissions for the Canadian Pacific Rail lounge car, the Robert S McLaughlin Public Library, Oshawa, the Standard Iron and Steel Company, the Children's Aid Society in Toronto and Seagrams Ltd He also taught drawing and painting at the Ontario College of Art and the Artist's Workshop. He moved to England in 1994 to live with his daughter for his remaining years.
William Winter My Chair, pencil & oil, 10'' x 8''
William Winter Three Children Pretending, pencil, 8'' x 10''