S. Gordon Harwood
Work rooted in expressionism
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As a self-taught artist, S. Gordon is drawn to and influenced by abstract expression. He takes great pride in volunteering as artist in residence for Looking at the Stars foundation, where he partners with members of the The Toronto Symphony and other world class classical musicians, creating abstract art during classical musical performances in correctional institutions in Ontario, Quebec and more recently in Lithuania. This activity has amplified S. Gordon’s desire to reflect the mood and intensity of the musical performance.
See: www.Lookingatthestars.org
His professional work can be found in both corporate and private collections across Canada, US, United Kingdom, Germany, Switzerland, and France.
Particularly in my abstract work, I consider myself a colourist; possessing a growing appreciation for the relationship between colour, brush stroke, and the emotive energy that can engage the viewer. The brush and the pallet knife are an extension of my hands to express my emotional state.
s. gordon harwood
More recently, my work is rooted in expressionism and the works of Mark Rothko, Jackson Pollock, Riopelle, and Jack Bush have served as a profound influence on my technique and pursuit. My technique is often characterized with colours directly from tube to canvas; using the canvas as a pallet to mix, merge, extract, and explore emotive shapes and figures.
Abstract work can be entirely impulsive. This style appeals to my emotional level, and it is this premise that I educate others in how to appreciate abstract work. My refrain is often, “Ask yourself not what it is, ask yourself how it makes you feel. On that basis, you may just find that elusive connection with art”. Moreover, the fusion of music and painting is a profound art form and is best described by Miles Davis who said, “A painting is music you can see. Music is a painting you can hear”.
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.SGordonHarwoodArtist.com