Acosta Strong Fine Art | October 5-16, 2026 Santa Fe, NM

Five Decades

Acosta Strong Fine Art celebrates Gregory Frank Harris, who approaches 50 years as a painter.

By Michael Clawson

Opening October 5 at Acosta Strong Fine Art in Santa Fe, New Mexico, is a new show for Southwestern painter Gregory Frank Harris, who has been painting professionally for 49 years. The show, A Passion for Painting Since 1977, celebrates a career that has spanned nearly five decades.

Towhee and Terracotta, oil on linen, 16 x 24 in.

Included in the solo exhibition are new landscape paintings that show how Harris incorporates modernism, impressionism and realism into his uniquely painted images of the high desert. New paintings include Rio Otono #4, a landscape painting of a river valley filled with autumn color; Towhee and Terracotta, an outdoor image showing a small bird next to a large pot filled with sticks; and Nocturne #5, a moody nighttime scene.

Nocturne #5, oil on panel, 12 x 12 in.

“From the beginning of the year, I go with the flow or muse…not necessarily painting for the show, but hopefully with great inspiration as per each idea,” the artist says. “And by August, I’ll look at the body of work and choose my favorites to include in October. As always, I like to exhibit a variety of artworks, from realism to modern.”

Autumn Cottonwood, Santa Fe Community, oil on linen, 30 x 40 in.

The gallery, which has shown the artist for many years, notes that he “demonstrates an extraordinary journey” through Western art. “A prodigy from a young age, mastering drawing, piano and sculpting, Harris evolved into a multifaceted talent,” according to a description. “His exploration of impressionistic techniques led to the creation of his unique 19th century-style paintings, earning recognition in galleries nationwide. His artistic ventures span landscapes, figurative works, and abstracted renditions, reflecting influences from classic masters to contemporary icons like Warhol and Basquiat. His dedication extends beyond art, generously supporting various local charities with numerous donated artworks.”