Artist Spotlight: Fielden Harper's "Directions"

Fielden Harper, Back to Basics, Acrylic on canvas, 12 x 36"

In our urban society many types of directions come to us in rapid succession while also requiring split second interpretation. Some directions are those we present to others and others are orders taken by us. They can jolt us into an immediate kinetic reaction or form a pattern that determines how we live. In her newest exhibition aptly titled Directions, Fielden Harper explores the vast array of possibilities life offers us its coded instructions and the signifiers by which we receive them. 

Fielden Harper, The Narrows, Acrylic on canvas, 40 x 34"

Using grids, patterns, and other signage, Harper interweaves literal pathways into her compositions, inviting and encouraging the viewer to follow the veins of the painting and the brush stroke, leading the viewer through multiple ways to arrive at a destination in her work. 

Fielden Harper, Urbanscape IX, Acrylic on wood, 41 x 61"

Other pieces instruct the viewer, asking them to stop, cross, or turn around. In this manner, Directions is an interactive show of sorts, with the artwork and the viewer participating in a mental game of “Simon Says.” With each individual piece, a coded visual and written language plays an integral role in how Harper decided on her subject matter. The reds of a stop sign, the curvature of a freeway, the patterns on a railroad crossing, all are inspirations for Harper. 

Fielden Harper, Freeway Series VII, Acrylic on canvas, 5 pieces, 43 x 10" each"

With life handing us an unlimited amount of choices we can take, Directions aims to show us the signs and reminders that the choices are always there when we stop, look, and listen.

Fielden Harper, Owl Eyes, Acrylic on canvas, 36 x 18"

The exhibition runs through March 17.

Meet Fielden at the Artist's Reception, Saturday February 25, 5-8pm

or at the Artist Panel, Saturday March 11, 3pm