Harold Klunder’s large-scale compositions reflect the dynamism of the urban environment. In Whiplash, the intersecting shapes and splashes of colour create a sense of frenzied action, calling to mind the flashing lights, buildings and billboards of the city. At the same time, Klunder is concerned with limiting the expansiveness of the work and imposing order through use of straight lines and geometric forms. The tactile and fluid qualities of the medium, already important in this piece, have been increasingly emphasized in his recent practice.

Harold Klunder was born in Deventer, Holland, and emigrated to Canada with his family in 1952, settling near Hamilton, Ontario. He attended Central Technical School in Toronto from 1960 to 1964. The influence of American Abstract Expressionism, examples of which were exhibited widely in Toronto during this period, can be seen in his paintings.