Harold
Town
Town's contributions to Canadian abstract art and his innovative Single Autograph Prints solidified his position as a leading figure in Modern Art. If you're looking for Harold Town original prints and editions for sale or would like to sell, request a complimentary valuation and browse our network's most in-demand works.
Harold Town art for sale
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Biography
Harold Barling Town was born on 13 June 1924 in Toronto, Ontario, where he would spend most of his life and career. His artistic journey began at the Ontario College of Art (now OCAD University), where he studied from 1942 to 1944. Town's early career was marked by his work as a freelance commercial artist, creating illustrations for magazines such as Maclean's and Mayfair.
In 1954, Town co-founded Painters Eleven, a group that would reshape the Canadian art scene by introducing Abstract Expressionism to a largely conservative audience. This collective established his reputation as a pioneer of Modernism.
Town's artistic output was characterised by its diversity. He worked across various media. His work ranged from abstract paintings to intricate collages, showcasing his versatility.
Town's career reached new heights in the 1950s and 1960s, as he gained international recognition for his unique Single Autograph Prints. These monotype prints, created using moody hues and interlocking shapes, garnered critical acclaim. The technique involved creating a single, unreproducible print, subverting the conventional notion of printmaking as a medium for multiple reproductions.
In 1956, Town represented Canada at the Venice Biennale. His work was also featured in exhibitions at major galleries across North and South America and Europe, further solidifying his reputation on the global art scene.
Town's artistic style evolved throughout his career, reflecting his restless experimentation. In the 1960s, he began incorporating elements of Pop Art and Op Art into his work, as seen in works like Enigma No. 9 (1964).
Despite his success, Town was known for his outspoken nature and controversial opinions on art and culture. He was a prolific writer, penning art criticism and commentary that sparked debate within the Canadian art community.