Harold Kraus, born in the United States in the mid-1940s to German parents, was introduced to painting early in life by his father, who was an artist. This early exposure sparked a lasting interest in color and light that continues to shape his work today. Now residing in Tennessee, Kraus has established a distinguished career, featuring numerous solo exhibitions and growing international acclaim.  "I call myself a 'colorist.'  All my life, I have been fascinated by the various properties of color. Many people live lives starved of color. It seems as if they are intimidated by it, so they surround themselves with 'safe' neutrals like gray or beige.  My paintings aspire to fill this color void. I think the most frequent remark I hear about my paintings is, 'I love his colors!'"
His deep appreciation for the nuances of light is vividly expressed through his striking use of color. His artwork blends impressionism with strong elements of expressionism. His work often radiates a sense of joy, expressed through his vibrant color choices and the imagery he portrays, with the goal of stirring warm, nostalgic memories.
"As a colorist, I am free to pursue any subject, but I prefer themes associated with happiness; the beach, circus, or vacation holiday certainly bring back many happy memories for most of us.  In a world often filled with sadness, I find joy in sunlight. It makes the colors sing!"