​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
ABOUT:
Harlan Brandon was born in West Baltimore, MD, and raised in Harlem, Brownsville, and East New York, Brooklyn—areas marked by economic and social challenges. Yet, for Harlan, life was also filled with beauty.
His early encounters with art made a significant impact. Art became a gateway for him, unlocking his potential and igniting a sense of boundless possibilities. It allowed him to view his urban surroundings and the wider world through a more expansive lens. As a marketing expert, he combines creative and analytical skills, boasting diverse experience across various fields, including fashion footwear design, global manufacturing, illustration, fine art, and retail.

Brandon has spent several years refining his skills in post-war abstract expressionism. By merging his artistic toolkit with over twenty-four years of expertise in marketing, design, and global manufacturing, he has achieved a harmonious integration of his four passions. His journey into abstract art has enabled him to incorporate new elements, broadening his artistic range. His creations exemplify a perfect blend of artistry and execution, characterized by a continuously evolving collection of images that respect both the history and technical aspects of post-war abstract expression.

He approaches each artwork with a distinct methodology. Each series of images reflects a unique process, employing a technique of acrylic painting that involves a careful, layered application of colors, resulting in abstract pieces that vary from minimal to intricate. Blues and greens frequently appear in his works, but every piece serves as an open canvas for exploring new color combinations. Brandon consistently pushes his boundaries, reinventing his art with each creation while retaining the cohesive thread that defines his signature style.

A devoted fan of cool jazz and world history, he draws inspiration primarily from architecture and urban cultures. Consequently, his abstract paintings convey emotions through the interplay of form and color, showcasing his appreciation for structural beauty and vibrant hues, which are instantly recognizable to viewers.

Throughout his life, Harlan has benefited from the guidance of mentors ranging from CEOs in advertising and congressmen to museum directors, all contributing to his multifaceted career. Among these influences, his most significant mentor was Henry Geldzahler, a Modernist art historian and curator at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Geldzahler's connections with contemporary artists like David Hockney, Alice Neel, Frank Stella, Andy Warhol, and Larry Rivers provided Brandon with invaluable insights into the New York modern art scene.

Harlan is a graduate of New York's School of Visual Arts, where he earned a BFA in Fine Arts and Marketing. He has also studied at Parsons School of Design and NYU Stern Business School, completing an Executive Program at the Museum of Modern Art and obtaining a Certificate in Post-War Abstract Art.
​
​