Artist Interview: Christopher E. Harrison
Christopher E. Harrison is a Minneapolis-based visual artist working in sculpture, painting, drawing, collage and graphic design. He is also a curator and educator.
How did you first connect with CAFAC?
I connected with CAFAC because we worked together on the John Biggers Seed Project, but [CAFAC Artistic Director] Heather Doyle and I also served together on the Minneapolis Public Arts Commission in the early 2000s. Then I joined the Board because because I thought it’s good to have someone of color on the Board and I believe in what CAFAC is doing and want to help advance that goal.
And you have recently completed some public art projects in collaboration with CAFAC?
My first project with CAFAC was "Aqurbane". It’s a sculpture from 2018 in North Minneapolis at Theodore Wirth Parkway. My second project with CAFAC is a ceiling sculpture called “Elements” at the new Public Services Center Building downtown Minneapolis. The hope is that it will be installed at the end of October or early November of this year. The building will be opening in November and then it will be accessible to the public. My piece is a 3-tiered sculpture, 27 feet long by 7 feet wide with organic shapes and made of aluminum, bronze, glass and computer pieces. There are sculptures by 8 different artists: one in the main lobby and one on each of the seven floors. CAFAC is my main partner in helping the vision become reality.
Growing up, did you have art mentors or inspirations?
I was a big fan of TV and comics and cartoons. My parents always supported my interests and so I was taking classes at the local arts center where I grew up in Ohio and I was the only kid in the class with a bunch of adults. Also, my teacher, Mr. Stevens, was a good role model for what an artist should be…you need to contribute to the community as you can, be honest in your expression and do your work for a positive goal.
What have you been working on recently?
Over the past couple of months I’ve probably done about 8 murals. I think it is important to be a part of the cause. And to be vocal for change, to be honest and allied with the good side of history. I try to use my work as advocacy for the social issues of this place and time.
What is coming up next for you?
In October, the plan is to do a solo show at Ridgewater College in Wilmar, MN and also to do a mural there. The idea behind the show is the restraint of the Black and Brown body. I’m also working on a show for 2022 at the Duluth Art Institute and I will be curating a couple of shows for February 2021 at the Bloomington Arts Center and the Central Library in downtown Minneapolis.
Keep up with Christopher here:
Instagram
Facebook
www.harrisonartstudio.net
rohocollective.org