(1924-1990) is renowned across Canada and beyond for his eclectic and dynamic body of work.
In the 1950s, Town established his reputation with a series of abstract monotypes (called "Single Autographic Prints"). He would exhibit these works at the Venice Biennale to great fanfare in Europe and beyond. By the 1960s, he was considered the most famous artist in Canada.
Town fearlessly experimented. Consider how different his "Toy Horse" is from his "Single Autographic Prints" or even his "Pop Star/Icon" works. In every decade, Town would switch gears and embark on new series with new material, courage and conviction.
Until the late 1960's Town's abstract works were critically and commercially embraced. The "Stretch" series, and the response, was a major departure from his previous work.
Was Town responding to emerging trends in the art world (such as Minimalism and hard-edge abstraction)? Town's oeuvre has little connection to minimalism, and he can arguably be understood as a maximalist, always aiming for extravagance, layers, and bravado.
Surprisingly, the "Stretch" series debuted to critical ambivalence. Its production was short-lived, with only 30 paintings created over a brief two-year period from 1968 to 1970.
"Stretch #30" is a smaller gem and the last canvas created in the series. Here a vibrant bubblegum pink backdrop hosts a trio of turquoise stretches that frame three-quarters of the canvas.
A void of negative space exists both at the center of the work and where the stretches are notably absent at the bottom of the canvas. Neatly aligned, the arrangement masterfully highlights the negative space as an integral element within the composition.
Today, the "Stretch" series looks remarkably contemporary. For the uninitiated, many assume this body of work to be brand new. The piece presents a rare opportunity to acquire one of the thirty canvases created during this brief and highly distinctive period of production.
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"Stretch #30"
Canada, 1970
Oil on canvas
Signed and dated by the artist, top left
48.5"H 48.5"W (work)
Framed
Very good condition.
Provenance: The Estate of Harold Town
Note: the price is $43,000 CAD
