Bill Mason: Talented Artist/Canoeist

T

tmayberry50

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Apr 23, 2009
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Recently Les Stroud and I discussed our affinity for the movie Jeremiah Jonson. He suggested I check out a documentary called "Waterwalker". This was released in 1984 and features Canadian artist/canoeist Bill Mason. This man had some great skills that he used as he canoed the waters of the US and Canada. You can watch the movie free, no strings attached at the link below. If you love the outdoors and going it alone I think you will enjoy this film. Sadly Bill Mason died of cancer just 4 years after this film was released.

http://www.nfb.ca/film/waterwalker/
 
Yes, Bill Mason was a remarkable canoeist, artist, and storyteller. I've been a fan ever since watching Paddle To The Sea back in...fourth grade? Waterwalker is one of his best films. Highly recommended for anyone interested in canoeing or wilderness.
 
Did he have a daughter who continued his work/passion? I seem to recall a "Mason" lady from one of Ray Mear's features sometime back?
 
A very enjoyable film of a remarkable man. I note that he copied a few of my canoeing styles... :foot:

Yes, paddle the canoe backwards from the bow seat, paddle mainly on one side as the current dictates, long painters on each end of the canoe. I only wish I could paint like that. And had the stamina to go the distances he went, and could read the waves on large water like that... and... and...

:) :thumbup:
 
He authored several really good how too paddling books also..

IMG_0649.jpg
 
Thanks for that link.

I'd heard of Bill Mason but have never seen the film.

That'll change now. :)

B
 
untamed said:
Did he have a daughter who continued his work/passion? I seem to recall a "Mason" lady from one of Ray Mear's features sometime back?
Click to expand...


Becky Mason.

She continues on in her dad's footsteps with both canoeing and cinematography.

These days "Classic Canadian Solo", as a paddling style and a name, can both be directly attributed to her. While many people practice the style (myself included) Becky has single-handedly broadened its exposure and increased its popularity. Google Becky and find a number of her instruction movies that are top-shelf for the style.
 
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