Atlin Café, 1981

Private Collection, Toronto

“Atlin Café” encapsulates Harrison’s ability to render the northern landscape and its community with joy and vibrancy. The daily bustle of the men, women, children and even animals including the artist’s signature dogs and ravens, is echoed in the fluid lines and colourful buildings creating a charming rhythm to the composition. For Harrison, a deep sense of community was pinnacle both in his practice and daily life living in the Yukon. The artist sought to translate the universality of joy in his works, informed by the people and spirit of the community where he lived.