Harry Kramer | |
---|---|
Born | |
Nationality | American |
Alma mater | University of the Arts (BFA in 1962), Yale University School of Art (MFA in 1965) |
Known for | Abstract painting and drawing |
Spouse | Trudy C. Kramer |
Website | harrykramer |
Harry Kramer (born 1939) is an American abstract painter, born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. In 1962 he received a BFA from The University of Arts (formerly Philadelphia College of Art) and earned an MFA from Yale University in 1965.[1]
Kramer first gained recognition in the 1970s with solo shows at the Brata Gallery[2] and at 55 Mercer Street Gallery,[3][4] critically acclaimed alternative spaces in New York City at that time. In the 1980s, his work was highlighted in “Six Painters: Gregory Armenoff, Jake Berthot, Howard Buchwald, Louise Fishman, Harry Kramer and Katherine Porter” at the Hudson River Museum with a catalog essay by the Director Peter Langlykke.[5] This was followed by solo shows over the following decades at numerous galleries, including the Greunebaum Gallery,[6] the Charles Cowles Gallery,[7][8] and Ameringer and Yohe Gallery,[9][10] all in New York City.
His work has also been included in numerous group exhibitions including the National Academy Museum (2013, 2007, 2004, 2001); Guild Hall in East Hampton, NY (2009); the Parrish Art Museum in Water Mill, NY (2014); The Hood Museum, Dartmouth College (1993); Concordia College, Bronxville, NY (1991); Barbara Kraków Gallery, Boston, MA (1987); Emily Lowe Gallery, Hofstra University, NY (1981); Detroit Institute of Arts (1976); and a major work is on permanent installation at the U.S. Federal Courthouse in Brooklyn, NY.[citation needed]
In Kramer’s work, the canvas is layered with thick surfaces of paint which are interspersed with animated drawing. Vivian Rayner of the New York Times called it "muscular but not macho".[6] Kramer’s extensive practice in drawing serves as a corollary to his paintings.[11]
Kramer’s work is represented in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art,[12] and the Brooklyn Museum.[13]
Kramer was awarded a National Endowment for the Arts Fellowship in 1982.[14] He has received grants from the Robert Lehman Foundation and the Pollock-Krasner Foundation, with two works in the online collection.[15] He was elected to the National Academy in 1994.[1]