In the Studio with Artist Colleen Harkins
Today, we’re going In the Studio with artist Colleen Harkins. Colleen’s artwork is currently on display in the Chesapeake Arts Center’s Unearthen gallery exhibit, July 14 - August 18.
Connecting the senses and giving form to that which has none. Colleen Harkins work is a record of lived experience, driven by process and ritual. Based on connecting the senses and her environment, her paintings as she describes them “are form given to the formless inner experience”. Abstract shapes and organic forms take shape on her canvas as visual markers, evidence of a lived moment in time and space. Colleen’s appreciation for the natural world and connecting with her environment took root growing up near Pennsylvania forests.
Here’s Colleen talking about her art, process and experience...
Who is your favorite mentor and what did they teach you?
The most valuable lesson I’ve learned from my teachers is simply showing up and putting in the work.
When did you start creating art? Was there an event that led you to this?
I have been an artist for as long as I can remember! Making things has always been integral to how I understand myself and the world.
What is your studio/creative space like? Or what is your favorite place to create in?
I am currently in between studios, but I can be happy anywhere with a window and a flat surface to paint on.
How has your art evolved over time?
My work has evolved from being more literal illustrations of ideas to something more abstract and difficult to explain with language. I believe the most interesting work asks more questions than it has answers.
What characteristics about your personality show through your art?
I think my paintings show my appreciation for the natural world, curiosity, and love for color and light.
Who would be your dream artist to collaborate with?
Forrest Bess
How do you know when a work is finished?
It is sometimes an elusive feeling, but there is a sense of things clicking into place. Like the painting has its own energy and making another move on it will only take away from it.
Is there a specific environment or material that's integral to your work?
Growing up near the forests of Pennsylvania has taught me the importance of connection with the natural world in my work, how my connection with my environment is just as important as my connection with my materials. Lately, my experiments with paper pulp and water-based paints have been integral to this new body of work.
What did you have to develop, try or learn to create your artwork?
Having a deep sense of connection with my materials is essential to my work, so that has involved many years of experimentation with different paints and surfaces to find the right ones. In general I’ve had to learn patience in the studio, and that a failed painting can be even more valuable than a successful one.
For more information on Lexi and her artwork, check her out on instagram or on her website.
Unearthen Gallery Exhibition
July 14 - August 18
Opening Reception: July 14 | 5:30 - 7:30pm
Special Artist Talk: August 11 | 6pm
Hal Gomer Gallery Hours:
Monday-Thursday 10:00am-6:00pm | Saturday 10am-1pm
