A Monster Anthology: New work by
Christopher E. Harrison

Christopher E. Harrison’s A Monster Anthology is a collection of paintings, sculptures, and printed works that chart the evolution of an imagined species’ existence through abstract portraiture and landscapes.

 

Inspired by historic and mythic themes from classic literary sources, Harrison creates a cosmology of unique creatures and environments, depicting their genesis, rise and fall through symbolism based on indigenous aesthetics, sci-fi fantasy and contemporary abstraction. For Harrison, the work stands in as a metaphor for the contemporary state of human existence, alluding to the progression of civilization up to our current times. Using the literary model of an anthology, each component acts as visual stories that are independent works but all contribute to the more encompassing theme of the species’ universe.

 

Harrison’s work is informed by diverse streams of inspiration, pooling ancient crafts ranging from African, Pre-Columbian and Native American cultures as well as modern graphic design, animation and scientific phenomena. This mixture combines relatable points of reference with Harrison’s improvised imagery, giving everything a sense of energy and immediacy. The subject matter seeks to create discourse of our world vision by exposing its contradictions and complexities while exploring the relationship of power, ideology and community throughout human history.

 

Christopher Harrison received his BFA from Columbus College of Art and Design in Columbus, OH. Harrison lives and works in Minneapolis. He has exhibited his work in solo and group exhibitions including Obsidian Arts, Nemeth Art Center and Smack Mellon in New York. His work has been supported with grant funding by Jerome Foundation, Minnesota State Arts Board and MRAC Next Step. He is currently a Museum Arts Educator at Walker Art Center.