Books with Gourd

Its been some time since I painted books and gourds. This is a small painting, which is 7 x 5 inches, was a good way for me to revisit this subject matter. I hope to have it completed by mid March.

"Havana Mangoes"

It was a pleasure having Cayenne Harris visit my art studio to discuss ideas for the Hyde Park Art Center Exhibition, Not Just Another Pretty Face. In getting to know Cayenne better, I asked her  questions about her family, favorite foods, and travels. She shared with me that one of her family members was part of the Black Panther movement. I thought this would be an interesting element to incorporate into the painting. Cayenne was familiar with my portrait and still life work, so she was open to either subject matter for the project. As we continued talking, Cayenne shared her experience of traveling to Cuba. She described the vibrant colors on the buildings and delicious taste of mangoes, which is one of her favorites fruits. A day after Cayenne’s visit to my studio, I decided to paint a still life using mangoes and placing them in a Cuban inspired environment. I wanted to use a saturated color palette to show a decadent time in Cuba’s history, but also show the passage of time and decay with the cracked tiles and peeling paint on the wall. Hidden in the peeling paint is a fist symbolizing the Black Panther’s and a Jewish life symbol, which represent Cayenne. I am thankful to have had the opportunity to work on such a unique project, and I hope to have more like this in the future.      

Diasporal Rhythms: Why is Black Art Hot Now?

Visiting My Artwork

Today, I had the honor of attending an event of one of my collectors in Chicago. The event featured performances by members of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra as well as artworks from famous artists such as Chuck Close,  Jean-Michel Basquiat, Francis Bacon, and Edouard Cortes. I was blown away that my paintings hang among art giants. I must say, I was also surprised when I over heard someone say, "Lets find the Russell Harris painting." What a humbling feeling.

James Weldon Johnson Foundation - The Painter’s Song (Sunday Morning Gro...

Russell Harris Art Exhibition 2018 Latin School of Chicago

Russell Harris Art

Starting a new self-portrait. I'm still thinking about the composition.

Studio Time!

Today is my day off at Latin School of Chicago. I'm spending my time working on this commission painting.

ART SMART: Why is Black Art Hot Now? The Road to International Recognition.

I had an amazing time being a panelist at the Smart Museum of Art. The topic of "Why is Black Art Hot Now? was an interest and insightful discussion. I appreciate the words of wisdom from artist Amanda Williams and artist/galleriest Andre Guichard during the panel discussion today. I would like to thank Dan Parker for moderating the event and Diasporal Rhythms for the amazing opportunity.

Honorable Mention

I'm excited to get news that my painting "Cradling Cane II" received an honorable mention at the 83rd midyear show at the Butler Institute of American Art. I always enjoy seeing that amazing artwork at this exhibition, and I'm looking forward to seeing the catalog from the event.

"Cradling Cane II"

Russell Harris Art: Prayer Books

Russell Harris Art: Prayer Books: This is a completed commission that I will be delivering to my client today. The painting was a joint effort in its design and meaning. It...

"Stoking"

"Jennifer"