Place: Blossburg
Born: 1879
Death: 1949
Biography:
, an American painter, sculptor, and etcher, left an indelible mark on the world of art with his exceptional skill as a gilder and framemaker. Born in Blossburg, Pennsylvania, on November 15, 1879, Harer's life was a testament to his dedication to craftsmanship and the arts.
Harer's early exposure to the world of cabinetry, under the guidance of his successful cabinetmaker father, laid the foundation for his future. Following his father's passing, Harer inherited his tools, which would later become a crucial part of his journey as an artist. He pursued formal education at the Pennsylvania Museum School of Industrial Arts and the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts (1900-1903 and 1908-1910), where he was mentored by renowned artists Thomas Anschutz and William Merritt Chase.
Harer's extensive travels, particularly to Spain and the West Indies, significantly influenced his design aesthetic. This eclectic blend of styles is evident in his work, which has been showcased at the National Academy of Design and the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts. His frames have not only elevated the value of Pennsylvania Impressionist paintings but also inspired a new generation of framers, including Francis A. Coll and Cullen Yeats.
Harer's passing on April 27, 1949, in Uhlerstown, Pennsylvania, marked the end of an era, but his legacy lives on through his work. For art enthusiasts and collectors, having a Harer frame on a Pennsylvania Impressionist painting is a significant addition to their collection.