Harold Town (1924-1990) remains one of the best-known and most intriguing artists from the "Painters Eleven" group. 

Town's reputation was established in the late 1950s with a series of mysterious unique abstract prints () that included collage elements. In 1956, he represented Canada at the Venice Biennale with these works. 

Over the following decades, the artist continued reinventing his aesthetic, regularly changing medium and mood. He was nicknamed the Picasso of Canada due to his constant evolution. By the mid-1960s, he was considered Canada's most famous artist. 

While Town made a significant contribution to Canadian abstraction, he created figurative works, or included representational elements in his artwork, throughout his career. 

"Rich Kid's Tree House" highlights Town's extraordinary draftsmanship and imagination. Executed with masterful precision, an ornate fantasy temple is perched atop a tree, perfectly wedged between two sturdy branches. The tree and structure stand against an expansive dark blue sky, enhancing the surrealistic atmosphere of this piece. Classical elements such as Roman Doric columns and a grand pediment reveal his deep engagement with ancient art and architecture. 

Beginning in the late 1950's Town explored stories or motifs related to antiquity (even as he achieved fame through abstract expressionism). While Town's aesthetic changed frequently, this interest in ancient culture was a constant. In this elaborate and impressive work on paper, Town allows his fascination with antiquity to intersect with his playful version of Surrealism. 

Today, Town's work is represented in prestigious collections across North America including the Art Gallery of Ontario, the Museum of Modern Art (New York), and the Guggenheim (New York).

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"Rich Kid's Tree House"

Canada, 1983

Watercolor, pen, and ink on watercolor paper

Signed, dated, and titled by the artist, verso 

15"H 11"W (work)

Framed

Very good condition.

Provenance: The Estate of Harold Town