Julian Harper, Horace, © 2017
Julian Harper, Horace, © 2017

“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

Julianharperart.com

Julian Harper, 2017
Julian Harper, 2017

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.

Julian Harper, Roy, © 2017
Julian Harper, Roy, © 2017

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.

Julian Harper, self under coffee table, 2017
Julian Harper, self under coffee table, 2017

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.

Julian Harper, Tony, © 2017
Julian Harper, Tony, © 2017

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

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