Harold Town (1924-1990) is renowned across Canada 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 at home. By the 1960s, he was considered the most famous artist in Canada.  

As an artist he fearlessly experimented with different media and aesthetics - 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 courage and conviction. 

While Town's abstract works had traditionally been 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. 

Interestingly when he debuted the "Stretch" series it was met with critical ambivalence and the production was short-lived. 

Today, the "Stretch" series looks remarkably contemporary. For the uninitiated, many assume this body of work to be brand new. The series offers young collectors an exceptional entry point into the artist's remarkably rich and diverse oeuvre.

Questions about this piece? Contact us or call +1.416.704.1720

Visit our Toronto gallery on Thursdays or by appointment.

"Red and Blue Stretch"

Canada, 1971

Lithograph/Serigraph

Signed, dated, and numbered by the artist.

From an edition of 99

29"H 40"W (work)

Very good condition.

Note: this work is sold unframed for $1,950.

This work is available framed in white with non-reflective museum glass for $2,350.