Alfred Stanley Colton

June 7, 2012 July 28, 1921 - June 7, 2012

Much loved - Sadly Missed

Al Colton was born in Toronto. He has been painting and sketching since childhood.

1940 - Studied at the Ontario College of Art under Frank Carmichael, John Alfsen, George Pepper and Arthur Lismer of the Group of Seven, completing two years with honours. One of his classmates was Donald Gordon Fraser

1942 - 1945 Joined the RCAF, serving three years as pilot instructor on the Link Trainer.

Married Esther Johnson, 1945

1944 - Exhibited one of his works, a portrait, in the National Gallery, Ottawa

1945 - 1947 Completed third and fourth year program at Vancouver School of Art, studied with Jack Shadbolt, and Fred Amess

Daughter, Ann born 1947

1948 - Graduated teacher training and appointed Art teacher with the Vancouver School Board.

Taught Art for 26 years. Exhibited in various shows such as the Annual BC Artist, 16th, 17th, 19th & 20th juried exhibitions at the Vancouver Art Gallery.

Son, David born March 1950

1952 - Elected full member of BC Society of Artists with exhibitions of his art for 5 years.

1959 - One of his paintings was accepted, full colour, BC Teacher magazine cover. Second painting accepted for the cover in 1961.

1964 - Completed his Masters of Education Degree, WWSC. MEd Thesis, was published by the BC Teachers Federation.

1966 - Appointed Curriculum Director - BC Teachers Federation.

1967 - Appointed Supervisor of Art Education, Vancouver School Board

1971 - 1973 Appointed trustee Vancouver Art Gallery Association.

1972 - Appointed Honourary Life Member of the BC Art Teachers Association.

1979 - Elected Coordinator of Art Education for the VSB, for liaison with Teachers, Administrators and Community Agencies.

1974 - 1986 Al's art was exhibited in many Public and Private galleries including the National Exhibition Centre, vancouver Art Gallery, Warwick Gallery, Horizons west Gallery, Surrey Art Gallery with a one man show, and his main outlet since 1978 - the Birthplace of BC Gallery in Fort langley. His paintings hang in many permanent, public and private collections in Canada, USA, and worldwide.

1998 - Four of his paintings were featured in the heritage book, 'Langley 1205 A Celebration"

Al Colton is survived by Esther, his much loved wife of 67 years, his daughter Ann Breen (Paul) in New Zealand, son David Colton (Kathleen) in Nanaimo, his brother Norman Colton (Virginia) in California, and many nephews and nieces.

His family wishes to extend their appreciation and greateful thanks to his Doctor of 30 years duration, Dr. Samuel J.C. Allen of Langley for his special consideration and unceasing care, and to the nurses and staff of Murrayville Heatlth Centre and Marrwood Extended Care who provided aid and comfort during his illness.

In lieu of flowers contributions are encouraged to the Salvation Army shelter in Langley.