Distortion is something that is very hard to make beautiful, but through her popular distorted gauche portraits, artist Henrietta Harris has managed to do just that. The artist and illustrator uses her paints and pencils to create imagery that is sometimes fun, yummy and colorful, while at other times managing to be dark, thought-invoking and inspirational. Through various magazine features and contributions, Harris is quickly obtaining a following both online and in the art world. We spoke to her about her twisted work.
Portable: How did you first get into doing illustration?
Henrietta Harris: I’ve always drawn and realized it was something I wanted to carry-on with so I kept at it. My family were all very supportive so that helped.
P: Your series on distorted watercolor and gouache portraits is very popular. What was your inspiration for these?
Henrietta Harris: I get this question so frequently- inspiration and influences- but it’s very hard to pin down, and I also like to keep some sort of secrecy and enigma. I suppose mainly I was focusing on trying to stir up feelings in people when they view the art and also trying to push traditional portraiture in interesting ways. The main thing I want is for the viewer to relate to the pieces in their own way, by taking what they want from them.
P: You do a lot of work for the music industry. Are you inspired by music when creating your illustrations? If not, what are you inspired by?
Henrietta Harris: Definitely, I see music in all my art. I listen to it non-stop when I am working and think of my art shows as albums without meaning to. I listen to a huge range of different styles and bands which helps me keep things interesting. Also making band posters helps a tremendous amount with my personal work as it makes me think in a different way, especially if I don’t usually listen to the band much.
P: What is your creative process like?
Henrietta Harris: I’m always collecting reference images, from books and the internet, and always taking photos on my phone. Sometimes a work could be based around colors I want to use and the subject is an afterthought, I’ve also done entire paintings because I like the way their hands are clasped together or something like that, something you might not look twice at.
In terms of actual process, I draw and paint every day, it’s as simple as that.
P: Do you use any editing software on your paintings and drawings? If so what do they add to your pieces?
Henrietta Harris: Not usually. My paintings are designed to be seen in real life. Sometimes I may change colors but I essentially do everything by hand. I tried to get into digital painting for a while but didn’t really enjoy it. I’ll leave it to the pros.
P: Do you have a favorite piece that you have done?
Henrietta Harris: No, this changes daily.
P: What can we expect to see from you in the future?
Henrietta Harris: I’m trying to find time to start on new paintings, I have so many commissions to finish first though! And look out for a show in New York mid-2013.