Hardy Hanson: Meditations

Hardy Hanson’s art mirrors the man: detailed and precise, imaginative with a sly wit, colorful and unexpected, fascinating and provocative. His artistic expression had many forms: paintings, drawings, etchings, mono prints, sculptures, and wall reliefs.

The through line directing Hardy’s work was his probing, questioning, curious, and reflective mind. Prima facie impressions of pattern and color belie deeper meanings. His art engages the viewer visually, intellectually, and often, emotionally. Hardy thought that visual engagement could lead to interior journeys and he never stopped questing.

This exhibition of Hardy’s work is especially timely. He arrived fifty years ago this year to begin teaching painting, drawing, and visual fundamentals to UCSC’s first dedicated art students. Hardy encouraged many of them to pursue careers in art and teaching and remained supportive and interested in their work even after his retirement.

Date of exhibition: September 30 – November 22, 2019 

Opening Reception: Saturday, October 26th, 5:00–7:00 p.m.

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