Charley Harper Art Exhibition to be Featured at Puyallup Fair

His works represent the simplicity of nature

Puyallup, WA – August 26, 2009 – The Puyallup Fair is pleased to present the art works of Charley Harper (1922-2007), who illustrated our world for six decades. In a style he called “minimal realism” his art reveals the behaviors of wild animals in their natural environment with creatively simple patterns, shapes and stories. The exhibition will be on display throughout the run of the Puyallup Fair, Sept. 11-27 in the Pavilion.

The Charley Harper exhibit will showcase 29 original pieces of artwork, plus 12 framed serigraphs, which give those viewing the exhibition a more rounded look at his works. Note cards and prints of his art, plus two of Harper’s books, Beguiled by the Wild and Charley Harper’s Birds and Words will also be sold. Twenty-five percent of the proceeds from sales are being donated to the Puyallup Fair Scholarship Program.

During his career as a designer, painter and illustrator, Harper was recognized by magazines such as Ford Times for his work; plus Betty Crocker’s Dinner for Two Cook Book, The Giant Golden Book of Biology, and Animal Kingdom.

Harper earned his Bachelor of Arts degree at the Art Academy of Cincinnati. His bold, colorful and almost geometric style of painting has delighted many, and continues to capture a growing audience. Harper’s unique and often humorous perspective on wildlife encourages awareness of environmental concerns.

The Charley Harper Art exhibition is free to Fair guests, and is sponsored by Columbia Bank.

The Puyallup Fair first started in 1900. This Pacific Northwest tradition is one of the top ten fairs in the world in attendance, and features big name entertainment, the PRCA Rodeo, rides, exhibits, food, flowers, and animals. For further information about the Sept. 11-27, 2009 Puyallup Fair, visit www.thefair.com or call the 24-hour hotline at (253) 841-5045.

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