Harold Town (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.
Questions about this piece? Contact us or call +1.416.704.1720
Visit our Toronto gallery on Thursdays or by appointment.
"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
- Where does the inventory ship from?
Our inventory is divided between New York and Toronto.
- Where do you ship to?
We can ship anywhere. Typically when we ship within North America we prefer to use FedEx or DHL. To Europe, Asia and beyond we generally use DHL.
- How much does it cost to ship?
For shipments within North America, we typically charge a flat rate fee. Many items on our site will list the rate. For shipping outside of North America, we can easily provide a quote and will look for the most efficient and economical option.
Most of the items on our site can be easily shipped internationally.
Occasionally we will recommend that an artwork be removed from its frame for shipping. Larger framed works are typically framed with plexiglass. We export over 80% of what we sell, so we are comfortable shipping anywhere.
- Are there additional taxes or fees?
When a work is valued above $2,500 usd there is a possibility of tax of 0.35%, but this is applied sporadically. There can similarly be an additional fee for customs brokerage and this can range from $20 - $65. US Taxes, duties and customs brokerage are not included in our flat rate shipping. However most of our shipments to the US enter without any additional fees.
- Do you provide a certificate of authenticity?
Yes, we guarantee everything we sell. We can provide both a digital and printed version of our certificate of authenticity.
What is your return policy?
- Caviar20 wants you to be 100% satisfied with your purchase. We have a 7 day no-questions full refund return policy for your purchase. Shipping charges are non-refundable. Return shipping is the responsibility of the customer. After 8 days returns are given a credit note. There is no expiration for our credit notes.
- What payment methods do you accept?
Canadian clients are welcomed and encouraged to pay with interac.