Harold Town (1924-1990), a celebrated figure in Canadian art, was distinguished not only for his remarkable artistic talent but also for his vibrant personality and unconventional lifestyle. A co-founder of Painters Eleven, a significant artists' group from Toronto, Town was instrumental in mainstreaming the abstract painting style popular in New York into Canadian art in the 1950s. This group, formed in 1953 by young artists including Jack Bush, Oscar Cahén, and William Ronald, played a crucial role in exhibiting abstract art in Toronto.
Born in Toronto, the son of a railway conductor, Town's deep engagement with drawing began in his youth. His education at Western Technical-Commercial School and the Ontario College of Art, along with his exposure to art history and the Old Masters, profoundly shaped his artistic approach. His career was marked by a versatility across various media such as painting, drawing, prints, collage, and assembly, each showcasing his distinct creativity and technical expertise.
Town's artistic achievements were globally recognized, notably with his works being exhibited at the Venice Biennale in both 1956 and 1964. His "single autographic prints" garnered international acclaim, leading to their inclusion in prestigious collections like the Guggenheim and the Museum of Modern Art in New York.
His career was further highlighted by numerous accolades. In 1957, Town received the Arno Award at the Biennale de São Paulo, affirming his stature on the international stage. This recognition was followed by a series of honors, including an Honorary Doctorate from York University in 1966 and an appointment as an Officer of the Order of Canada in 1968, solidifying his position as a leading figure in Canadian art. His memberships in esteemed societies such as the Canadian Group of Painters and the Royal Canadian Academy of Arts underscored his influential role within the art community.
Town's work is represented in a wide array of esteemed collections worldwide. These include the Stedelijk Museum in Amsterdam, the Tate Gallery in London, the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, the Edmonton Art Gallery, the Beaverbrook Art Gallery, the Art Gallery of Hamilton, the Agnes Etherington Art Centre at Queen’s University, and the National Gallery of Canada, among others, reflecting the extensive reach and appeal of his art.
Throughout his life, Town engaged in numerous public art commissions and took part in significant exhibitions across Canada, the United States, Europe, South America, and Japan. His art, characterized by a profound love of color, energy, and dramatic intensity, mirrored his diverse interests and inspirations. His success, marked by record prices for his works and his prominence as a cultural icon, played a vital role in elevating the Canadian art scene to new levels of confidence and sophistication.