Alexandra Stretton Harr

Artist Statement

“There are always flowers for those who want to see them.” —Henri Matisse

Most of my career, I have painted in a representational style, doing mostly figures and animals. Recently, I have moved into the realm of abstract paintings, and I am so energized. I feel like it is the ultimate challenge for me. Instead of merely interpreting what I see, I approach my blank canvas and think, what feelings do I want to convey? What would be a strong composition with variations of plane, line, and color? What would excite my viewer? What would surprise them or delight them? And then I start, and it’s like composing a symphony out of thin air.

The goodness of humankind is all around us. We just have to look for it. I feel like my art, while it brings me joy making it, brings even more joy to my viewers.

Biography

Born in Denver, CO and now based in Fairfax, CA,

I have been fortunate to have studied under many prominent artists in my life. My artistic career first began when I was only 15. I went to NYC to study under the wing of my talented aunt, Trudy Stretton, a head professor of fashion illustration at the Fashion Institute of Technology in NYC for which I will always be grateful. This experience was difficult but rewarding and shaped me to be the artist I am today. I put together a body of work that won many awards and toured the nation even without me. In the end it won me a scholarship to the prestigious School of the Art Institute of Chicago where I graduated after four years. While studying in Chicago, I had boundless resources exciting and inspiring me to push beyond the boundaries.

After college I returned to Denver, where I met Quong Ho at the Art Students League of Denver. I have always loved painting figures and Quang helped refine my mastery of figure painting.

I moved to Marin County over 30 years ago to be with the love of my life, Eric Harr. Shortly after, I met and developed a friendship with renowned artist, Leslie Allen who has mentored me and opened my mind to the complexities of abstract painting.

All of these influences have helped me shape a distinctive style rooted in bold expression and emotional depth.

My business, Stretton Designs, thrived for 20 years painting murals for prominent clients in Denver and the Bay area including an extensive commission from Gianni Versace for a trompe l’oeil in Denver. One of my favorite commissions was the beloved sunflower project under Highway 101 in San Rafael on 3rd Street earning me the title of “The Sunflower Lady” and many other private commissions not open to the public.

Though I was busy with my business I continued painting figures and animals on canvas and sold my work in local galleries. I currently paint in my beautiful home studio in Fairfax, where I have lived for 30 years with my husband and our two beautiful children, Vivienne and Turner.

Art Medium(s)

Oil Paint, Acrylic Paint, Drawing