Ted Harrison

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Edward Hardy "Ted" Harrison (1926–) is a Canadian artist notable for his paintings of the Yukon.[1] Harrison was born in 1926 in Wingate, County Durham, England[2] and currently lives in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada.[1]

Harrison first cut his teeth as a painter during his stint at the West Hartlepool School of Art in England. Although interrupted by war, Harrison went on to successfully complete his studies, being awarded a National Diploma in Design from the College in 1949. His subsequent earning of a teaching certificate from the University of Durham paved the way for a teaching career that was to last almost three decades.[3][4]

He was then, from 1967, to reside in Yukon, Canada - a location with particular prominence in many of his works.[5] His work from this period is well known for capturing the colours and culture of the Yukon.[6] One of his best loved creations is his illustration of the Robert Service poem 'The Cremation of Sam McGee'.[7] He stayed there until 1993.

He is recognised for a vibrant, whimsical and even illogical use of colour, often assigning unfamiliar tone to depicted features. He has worked, since the 1970s and thus in his post-academic capacity, not only as an artist but also as an illustrator and author. His work in the field earned him a national first: selection for the International Children’s Book Exhibition in Bologna, Italy.[3]

In 1987 Harrison was made a Member of the Order of Canada for his contributions to Canadian culture,[3] and followed this up with an honorary doctorate from the Athabasca University in 1991. He then received an Honorary Doctor of Laws Degree from the University of Alberta, in 2005.[3]

Harrison's wife, Nicky, has Alzheimer's disease.[1][8] Harrison has helped raise money for Alzheimer foundations.[8]

[edit] References

  1. ^ a b c Amos, Mike. "The Northern Echo: JOHN NORTH - Anything Yukon do", The Northern Echo, 2006-08-31. Retrieved on 2007-03-02. 
  2. ^ Ted Harrison Gallery Serigraphs - biography. Retrieved on 2007-03-02.
  3. ^ a b c d Boon, Sarah. "Ted Harrison to receive honorary degree", University of Alberta, 2005-04-20. Retrieved on 2007-03-02. 
  4. ^ Blennerhassett, Patrick. "Ted Harrison talks politics and religion", Victoria News, 2006-02-10. Retrieved on 2007-03-02. 
  5. ^ Kennedy, Janice. "Artist celebrates Canada's birthday", The Record, 1992-06-13. Retrieved on 2007-03-02. 
  6. ^ Purdy, Lucy. "Unique Colours of Music show presents", The Barrie Advance, 2004-09-19. Retrieved on 2007-03-02. 
  7. ^ Adilman, Sid. "Sam McGee and a Gambling Grandma", The Toronto Star, 1986-10-19. Retrieved on 2007-03-02. 
  8. ^ a b McNeely, Sean. "An Alzheimer spouse travels a lonely road - Caring for a stricken partner exacts an enormous toll", The Toronto Star, 2000-03-18. Retrieved on 2007-03-02. 

[edit] External links