166

Ves Harper

(1930-2004)

Untitled (Costume Design for Dex - A Jazz Odyssey).

Gouache and ink on gray cardstock, 1995.
Signed and dated "'95" and inscribed with notations in ink, lower right. Inscribed "Dex - A Jazz Odyssey - The Dansk Danse Teater - Denmark Radio Big Band with Dexter Gordon", right edge.
13 1/2 x 9 1/2 in. (34.3 x 24.1 cm.), Frame: 17 x 14 x 0 1/2 in. (43.2 x 35.6 x 1.3 cm.)

  • Provenance:
    Acquired directly from the artist.
    Private collection, Denmark.

    Ves Harper graduated in art history and humanities from the University of Tennessee and served for a number of years as professor at the University of Atlanta. He went on to teach at Sarah Lawrence whilst beginning his collaboration with Alvin Ailey at the 51st Street YWCA's Clark Center for the Performing Arts. Harper designed the costume and decor for Ailey's Revelations which debuted at the 92 St. Y in 1960. He also designed costumes for Ailey's 1958 Blues Suite and 1962 Come and Gone.

    Harper immigrated to Denmark in 1965 and became affiliated with Denmark Radio, where, together with producer Thomas Grimm, he was responsible for the internationally-recognized ballet broadcasts. In 1978, Harper made a detour into the world of theater when he helped found the intimate stage Teateret ved Sorte Hest. He was also responsible for the set design at Café Teateret. He retired from Denmark Radio in 1992.
  • Condition:
    Please contact the Specialist for the auction to request a condition report.

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October 7, 2025 12:00 PM EDT
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