White Triangle, c. 1939 Harris, Lawren S. oil on canvas 129.5 x 93.2 cm
Theme:
In this geometrical composition based on the triangle and circle, Harris incorporates the ideas of theosophy. Through his studies of this philosophy Harris evolved his concepts of art, believing that one could arrive at an individual experience of the "essential order, the dynamic harmony and the ultimate beauty" of all existence.
Harris made the work during a stay in Santa Fe, a time in his life when he was looking for a style that would better express his spiritual beliefs. He focused on the purified realm of abstraction or "non-representational" painting.
Theosophy
Denotes metaphysical teachings and systems, derived from personal experience and esoteric tradition, which base knowledge of nature and the human condition upon knowledge of the divine nature or spiritual powers. The Spiritual in Art: Abstract Painting 1890-1985 (exh. cat. by M. Tuchman and others, 1986)
Denotes metaphysical teachings and systems, derived from personal experience and esoteric tradition, which base knowledge of nature and the human condition upon knowledge of the divine nature or spiritual powers. The Spiritual in Art: Abstract Painting 1890-1985 (exh. cat. by M. Tuchman and others, 1986)