Gillian Harper: EROSION
2021 Artist-in-Residence at Home ReSource
“Configuration 1” Studio finds with a natural element added
How was your experience as an Open AIR Artist-in-Residence?
I had such an enjoyable experience as an Open AIR Artist-in-Residence. After a year of such uncertainty due to the pandemic, being able to have the time to research, reflect, and explore the surrounding area of Missoula was amazing. It was a refreshing break from reality that helped me narrow down some of the themes and concepts I am exploring in my work.
Pressed azaleas gathered during Louisiana's spring time
What was your research process during this time?
I spent a lot of time at the Missoula Public Library. They allowed me to get a temporary library card, so I spent hours browsing the shelves and special collections section. Often, I would take books with me on my daily hikes to read and take notes in a secluded area of nature. The outdoor space felt comforting and necessary as I researched difficult topics such as invasive species, industry and its effects on nearby communities, and climate change.
What are you up to now (post Open AIR)?
This is my final thesis year at Louisiana State University, so I have been using much of the research I did while in Montana to put together a solo show of work. Much of my work is research based which is a very time-consuming task. In the months following my residency, I have been revisiting notes and information gained to manifest a series of art that I believe is important and relevant to the time and environment that I currently live in here in southeast Louisiana.
“Configuration 3” Studio finds with a natural element added
How would you describe your work?
The series of work that I am currently concentrating on pertains to coastal Louisiana and the industrial corridor along the Mississippi River between Baton Rouge (where I live) and New Orleans. I am working with activist groups concentrating on both coastal erosion, disappearing marshes, and local neighborhoods effected by industry takeover. I spent much of my time in Missoula researching river systems, marshes, and government policies.
“Configuration 2” Studio finds with a natural element added
When did you first begin working with this medium, media?
It was only about a year ago that I started incorporating nature as a material in my artwork. I walk every day to clear my head and begin my day with some movement. I began collecting things I found interesting and noticing seasonal patterns. The beginning of spring in southern Louisiana is evident with the colorful azaleas blooming everywhere. I wondered about the possibility of preserving this natural signal of spring and how to showcase such a recognizable bloom. In other cases, I started incorporating flowers or grasses into compilations of other found objects. I began recognizing the permanence of many man-made items with the ephemerality of nature. This is something I am currently exploring and look forward to continuing with in the future.
See more of Gillian’s work at www.gillianharper.com