Where the Universe Sings: The Spiritual Journey of Lawren Harris is a captivating exploration of the life and art of Lawren Harris, a prominent Canadian artist known for his contributions to the Group of Seven. This book delves into the profound spiritual journey that shaped Harris’s artistic vision, offering readers a glimpse into the soul of one of Canada’s most influential painters.
The spiritual journey of Lawren Harris was a lifelong pursuit that began in his youth and continued until his death in 1979. Born in 1885 in Brantford, Ontario, Harris was exposed to the natural beauty of Canada from an early age. His passion for the outdoors and his desire to capture the essence of the Canadian landscape would become the foundation of his artistic career.
As Harris grew older, he became increasingly fascinated by the concept of spirituality and its role in the world. He sought to understand the deeper meaning of existence and how the natural world could be a source of spiritual enlightenment. This quest led him to explore various religious and philosophical traditions, including Buddhism, Hinduism, and Native American spirituality.
One of the most significant influences on Harris’s spiritual journey was his time spent in the Canadian Arctic. In the early 20th century, he traveled to the North with a group of fellow artists, including his close friend and collaborator, A.Y. Jackson. The stark, desolate beauty of the Arctic landscape profoundly impacted Harris, inspiring him to create works that captured the essence of the natural world and its spiritual significance.
Where the Universe Sings: The Spiritual Journey of Lawren Harris delves into the details of Harris’s Arctic expeditions and the profound impact they had on his life and art. The book examines his paintings, which often feature the vast, open spaces of the Arctic, and analyzes how these works reflect his spiritual beliefs and his search for meaning.
The author, A.D. WOOD, provides a comprehensive look at Harris’s life and work, offering readers a unique perspective on the artist’s journey. Through extensive research and interviews with those who knew Harris, Wood paints a vivid picture of the man behind the brush, revealing the depth of his spiritual quest and its influence on his art.
In addition to exploring Harris’s spiritual journey, the book also examines the broader context of Canadian art and culture during the early 20th century. It highlights the Group of Seven’s contribution to the development of Canadian art and the importance of their work in shaping the national identity.
Where the Universe Sings: The Spiritual Journey of Lawren Harris is a must-read for anyone interested in the life and work of Lawren Harris, as well as for those who appreciate the beauty and depth of Canadian art. It is a testament to the power of art to inspire and transform, and a reminder of the enduring legacy of one of Canada’s most influential artists.
