Homer Ransford Watson was born in 1855 at Doon, Ontario. In 1874, he went to work for a time as an assistant at the Notman Photographic Studios in Toronto. In 1876, he visited New York state and became interested in the Hudson River School. When he returned to Doon the next year, he worked as a commercial artist in addition to his fine art practice. From 1887 to 1891, he lived and worked in England and Scotland. Over the years he travelled and painted in Europe, the United States, and various locations in Canada. He was a member of the Royal Canadian Academy, a founding member of the Canadian Art Club, and served terms as president for both organizations. He died in Doon in 1936.
