The Beginnings
Born in Florida in 1960 to a Dutch oil-painting mother and maverick Israeli father, my childhood was molded by loving creative parents. Yet, our family struggled financially and the very practical influence of immigrant parents led me to a pragmatic profession as I become a CPA (certified public accountant) in 1982. This first career with Coopers & Lybrand lasted for 6 years. Feeling stifled, I joined Ted Turner's Turner Broadcasting in 1988 and thrived in the entrepreneurial environment. I was also fortunate to be able to gradually develop a deep understanding of the creative process, spending time working in television (TBS, CNN, TNT, Cartoon Network...), movies (MGM/UA), and animation (Hanna Barbera). In 1994, I led the team that developed the first major breaking news web site, CNN.com.
In 1997 I moved to California to become the CEO of Infoseek Corp., an Internet search and software company. After years of hyper-growth, we sold Infoseek to Disney. Although I stayed active on corporate boards, I decided to change directions and explore a new outlet for my creative energy.
Life as an Artist
My new chapter in life started by returning to school. After experimenting with a variety of classes, I stumbled into a course in metal sculpture. There, with generous portions of inspiration, encouragement of Professor/Artist David Ogle, I discovered my love of sculpture. By spending several years at the college foundry becoming intimately familiar with each step of the lost-wax bronze casting process, I soon came to appreciate the fine craftsmanship and hard work that are essential to bronze sculpture. I now sculpt in oil-based clay in my home studio and have my works cast under my direction by the talented team at the Firebird Foundry in Monterey, CA.
Harry's Sculpture
SPIRITUAL WORK: The bulk of my early work focuses on artistic interpretations of my spiritual experiences which provide limitless subject matter to explore. The pursuit of the "good life" starts with a journey of seeking what "good" means and where it comes from. These spiritual explorations form the foundation of all that I do. The pleasures in life are only truly enjoyed when you have a deep appreciation for the source of our blessings.
WINE LOVERS COLLECTION: I enjoy wine and the lifestyle that goes with it. By creatively incorporating wine bottles (actual size) with imaginatively positioned figures, I am able to whimsically capture the passion for life that wine lovers possess. This series has allowed me to find a distinctive style and voice, and frankly, reflects where I am in life. After years of long hours and many road trips, it's now time to pour a glass of wine and drink in the richness of life. I hope these wine sculptures resonate with others who also deeply appreciate both art and wine.
Harry's Painting
Yet my artistic curiosity kept me exploring beyond sculpture into the world of painting. After thousands of paintings, I now find that simple lines can tell the most powerful story. The simplicity of the image can cut straight to the deepest emotion. The Flowers Series is inspired by my search for meaning in God's Word. Some images are accompanied by Bible verses, while others are presented with just the simple lines and flowers. The flowers represent the beauty, peace, love and joy of our Creator, and are discovered throughout our life, often in unexpected places.
Psychology Student and Home Life
I have recently tapped into a desire to help others through counseling. Accordingly, I now am a full-time graduate student in Counseling Psychology (Marriage and Family Therapy track) at Santa Clara University.
I have a wonderful wife and two amazing children. When I'm not sculpting or painting, you can usually find me having lunch with my wife, studying for class, spending time with the kids, playing tennis or working on a project with my local church.