(1924-1990) is renowned across Canada and beyond for his eclectic and dynamic body of work. He was considered the most famous artist in Canada after
During his career he fearlessly experimented with different media and aesthetics - consider how different his "" is from his "" or even his "" works.
In every decade, Town would switch gears and embark on new series with courage and conviction. Regardless of medium, Town loved creating works that had calligraphic qualities or emulated the appearance and versatility of ink.
"Ocean #2" is notable for its electric spontaneity and simplicity. Executed in bold washes and ribbons of India ink, the composition is bustling with organic lines and curvilinear forms that stretch dynamically across a horizontal plane.
The lines expand and contract, gathering and dispersing in a rhythmic interplay that balances tension and order. With such simple execution, we're reminded of Town's intuitive understanding of form and composition, as well as his relentless exploration of the possibilities within abstraction.
At first glance, this work could be interpreted as an exercise with an ink brush. On closer inspection one wonders whether this is a depiction of a coastline or seascape.
Today, Harold Town's work is represented in prestigious collections across North America including the Art Gallery of Ontario, the Museum of Modern Art (New York), and the Guggenheim (New York).
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"Ocean #3"
Canada, 1979
India ink on paper
Signed, dated, and titled by the artist, bottom left and verso
22"H 29.5"W (work)
Very good condition.
Provenance: The Estate of Harold Town
Note: the price is $3,950 CAD