Richard Harper
Since the early 1980’s Richard Harper’s work has been focused on exploring the limits of realist painting. Attempting to hone representation down to its essentials he chose to restrict himself to the figure. Since then the human form has been central to his work and stands as not only a representation of the human being itself but of humanity and the experience of being. His works involve multi-layering of several very thin translucent coats of paint. On the figures it takes on the mechanics of constructing each layer of the skin itself and requires several months of painting. From conception to completion a painting may encompass several years of gestation.
Awarded first prize in FiKva Award 2022, and selected as finalist in ARC salon 2019, 2023. His paintings have been regularly selected to participate in Figurativas, Barcelona, receiving honourable mention 2017, as well as having a painting selected for the permanent collection of MEAM.
He has been exhibited internationally: Galerie Alain Blondel, Paris, France, Bruce R Lewin Gallery, New York, Allen Stone Gallery, New York… with works being shown in various international salons: FIAC, SALON DE MARS, Paris, France, SALON D’ART CONTEMPORAIN, Strasbourg, INTERNATIONAL GALLERY INVITATIONAL, New York…
Richard studied painting at the Los Angeles Art Center College of Design where he graduated in 1975 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree. In 1986, after working several years in California, he moved to Paris. He now lives and works in Normandy, France.
