An exhibition of works by artist Phillip Harris

Private View:                    Friday 11th of December 2009 - 6 pm to 11 pm
Exhibition runs from:         Friday 11th to Thursday 17th of December 2009
Gallery Opening Hours:      Fri, Sat, Mon, Tues, Wed, Thurs: 2.30 pm - 6.30 pm
Last day of Exhibition:      Thursday 17th of December: 11.00am to 5.00pm

Emotional Expressions is based on the importance and impact of emotions translated into expressions. Harris’ work pays special attention to the unique and diverse nature of mimicry and how it marks us out as individuals.

He is drawn towards the intriguing story that lies behind a fleeting glance or beaming grin that can be instantly captured within a single static frame.

Having a broad fascination for and the ability to draw an abundance of things from buildings to landscapes to animals, the subject of the human face was something Harris found the most challenging. Marked with the frustration of not feeling confident to draw that which was most fascinating to him, the human face, in particular the live quality of human expression; his work came to focus solely on the study of human emotion.

In order to achieve a natural and unforced quality in his subjects Harris takes photos without the subject’s knowledge. This method has produced a more honest portrait and Harris finds that as he paints more of the subject’s personality begins to shine through.

His interest in iconic figures delves into the verisimilitude of public expression and the extent to which truth is conveyed within a public arena.

Graphite pencils or black Acrylic paints are used by Harris to accomplish the desired effect for his portraits, giving his subjects a play of shadow and light as well as accentuating human emotion.