UPCOMING EXHIBITION

Nicholas Harper "Icon" June 13th - July 18th NICHOLAS HARPER – ABOUT An icon is an image, picture, or representation; it is a sign or likeness that stands for an object by signifying or representing it; an image or depiction that represents something else of greater significance through literal or figurative meaning, usually associated with religious, cultural, political, and economic standing. Harper’s current body of work represents his ambition to make the icon relevant for today’s contemporary audience. Through exploring individual psyche, he hopes to transcend merely capturing the portrait of the sitter, but rather, exposing the psychological and spiritual aspects of the subject through distortion, atmosphere and Harper’s personal symbolism. In an attempt to capture the tension Harper believes to exist in humans today, he strives to present the subject in both divine and worldly aspects focusing on everyday people and not the preordained “holy” people of history. “When looked upon from an outside perspective, the tension in all of us takes on a strange beauty. This is what I hope to present in my work. In so doing, my wish for the viewer is that they may come in contact with their spiritual self and glimpse at their personal divinity.” Harper transcends dogmatic religious belief while reaching for a universal experience and realization. Just as icons of the Byzantine and Russian heritage provided a means of meditation and contemplation, so too, Harper hopes that his work finds a place in peoples homes, and more importantly, has a positive influence throughout their life. “Rather than simply beautifying a living environment, my intention is that the work reaches for a transformation of the body, mind and soul while acting as a focal point in ones life experience.” Nicholas Harper has gained national notoriety for his award winning paintings and gallery and has been featured in numerous local, national and international publications including CNN where he was named as an artist to watch.

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