Tony Harrison

Tony Harrison explored multiple forms of media and printmaking techniques throughout his career, including painting, sculpture, printing, etching, engraving, and even illuminated manuscripts. Though born and educated in England, Harrison was so inspired by the burgeoning art scene in New York that he decided to move there in 1965. He took a teaching position at Columbia University and taught their first printmaking workshop.

Harrison took inspiration from the bold use of solid colors by New York School artists like Robert Motherwell. Harrison’s practice was transformative; he took natural materials like wood and carved it into painted, strict geometric forms to the point where it came to resemble plastic. His attention to line stemmed from his love of drawing and illustration.