Today we’d like to introduce you to Derek Harrison.
Derek, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I began by working as a Tattoo artist in Colorado. I moved to Los Angeles to study at the Los Angeles Academy of figurative art. It was very important to me to get academic training in terms of drawing and painting. After tattooing for six years, I transitioned into working full-time as a Fine Artist. I began exhibiting my work in galleries, doing commissions and teaching. I now have a studio in Santa Barbara. I teach part-time at a college here. I have had work in several museum exhibitions as well as gallery shows.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Certainly not. Building a life and livelihood as an artist is very challenging. It takes an incredible amount of time, discipline and sacrifice to gain the skills and experience necessary to do relevant and skillful work. Keeping your head above water is never easy especially in the early years. It always comes down to how much passion and devotion you have to your craft. That is what keeps everything moving.
Please tell us more about your art.
I specialize in realistic oil paintings. I have a deep admiration for the skill and quality that has been achieved throughout the ages in this field. I primarily paint figurative works. Paintings of people set in and around where I live, Southern California. The landscape is beautiful here. The light is unique and amazing. When combining that with the figure one can tell interesting and beautiful stories.
So, what’s next? Any big plans?
My goal is to continually progress. I always want to be pushing forward, pushing my own boundaries and achieving greater feats. When truly great work is done, people relate to it in a special way that can have a profound effect. I’m never sure what is in store next. But I stay focused, work hard and move onward and upward.
Contact Info:
- Address: 1315 State St
Santa Barbara, CA 93101 - Website: Derekharrisonart.com
- Phone: 8057053087
- Email: dharrisonart@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/derekharrisonart/?hl=en
Image Credit:
Derek Harrison
Suggest a story: VoyageLA is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
