“I think that’s important as an artist – to follow through with all the dumb ideas you get in your head.”
Name
Julian Harper
Profession
Studio Artist
Website
Who are you? What do you do?
I am currently a student at Brigham Young University in Provo Utah. I primarily work in video and photography.
Where are you from?
I am originally from Indianapolis, Indiana. It’s kind of like Chicago but less cool.
Your style in 3 words?
Soul, Self, Sad.
Your weakness? Your strength?
I watch too much Netflix. I think that I am stubborn person. That trait helps me stick with ideas, even if they are stupid. I think that’s important as an artist – to follow through with all the dumb ideas you get in your head.
What makes you different?
I don’t know if I am different. I think one thing I try to focus on is sincerity (in my work and otherwise). I think that cool is overrated sometimes.
When did you decide to become an artist?
I was in high school when I realized art was one of the few things I liked to do. I don’t know if I was good at it, but I felt good doing it. I was lucky enough to be taught by some talented people back then. And they introduced me to studio art.
What do you find most fascinating about the creative process?
I like how immediate art can be. Ideas can go into my head and be produced quite quickly. I also appreciate the sense of empathy that can come from a piece. I like portraying difficult issues without being didactic. I think art can have openness that other mediums don’t allow.
A few words about your favourite creation?
A favourite work that I have created is a part of this new photography series I have been working on. I have been really interested in performance and documenting performance. And some of these photos really get at what I like about people.
Someone else’s work that inspired or inspires you…
One of the most powerful photographs is that of James Meredith after being shot during a March Against Fear. I don’t care much for Jack Thornell’s photography per say. But the image has always stuck with me. It describes a lot of truth about violence, hate, fear, and also grit, and perseverance. It’s also a real image. There is nothing posed or staged. It is real. I like that. I cried the first time I saw it hanging up. I’ll never forget it.
A new project coming up or an idea you want to work on?
I am working on a short film that’s going to be made in Knoxville, Tennessee. I make a lot of my work about my past in particular, and my family has many roots in that town. I hope to describe the sense of soul I feel when I go down there.
Finish the sentence „More important than my career is…“
altruism.
2018: Where are we going?
If “we” is the world, God knows.
When the going gets tough…
I watch Youtube, then get to work.
Your city’s favourite spots?
My Granny’s house in Knoxville, TN.
Do you have a vision?
What I really wish to do with my art is find a way to improve social practice. I think that art sustains itself often on its exclusivity, or marketability and I want to find a way to dismantle that.
What would you do if you could change the World?
I think I would require everyone to live outside of their home country for a few years. I think that people (especially Americans) lead an isolated life.
Tell us about your future plans…
I hope to get an MFA in Europe, and teach at a university. I think there are many opportunities that open up when you are attached to a school. I like the kind of communities that colleges create.
Last but not least: what is your favourite Song?
Either Dramamine By Modest Mouse or Last Donut of the Night by J Dilla
#…?
#forfreedoms