BIO
Best known for some 15 years in the world of music, in both the United States and abroad as a songwriter/composer and performer, Ed Harris has created a vast body of work in the visual arts over the past several years.

Paintings and drawings have emerged, paralleling many of his accomplishments in music, while offering fresh insights into the diverse levels of his sensitivity and creative output.

During childood, Ed found himself in the daily company of artwork being created by his parents. Excursions to major museums and galleries in Baltimore, Washington, DC, and New York City, undoubtedly made their mark, affording him a lasting legacy. Exposure was extensive, ranging from images of Pre-Columbian Mexico to the contemporary expressionism of Romare Beardon and William De Kooning. Given this background it should be observed that Ed's work is very much original, and not indebted to any single historical period or artist.

From the time his band was formed there was no question that his contacts with professional musicians and an admiring public in 48 states also had a major impact on his work. The band eventually found themselves in the company of bands like The Pixies and The Flaming Lips. In addition, touring that took him to Tokyo, Rome, England, Iceland and more, clearly assured exposure to a broad spectrum of dialects and patterns of daily life that have been welcomed by his outgoing personality. These contemporary aspects of human existence have transformed themselves into paintings and drawings that boldly and swiftly engage the viewer and often offer intricate interlacings that invite the spectator to explore their woven identities.

One of the woven paintings required a year to complete, demonstrating the loving patience and commitment that are hallmarks of his style. Colors that merge when experienced from across the room reveal their inherent identities when viewed closely. Ultimately, these collective "cells" of color present themselves as a coherent, solid, living form.

A more recent painting, well over six feet tall, embodies a commanding presence, with its contrasting tonal qualities, engaging rhythms and high resolution impact zones that deliver powerful thrusts at a momentous speed. The work is truly monumental.

Smaller paintings impart their multifaceted personalities, which unfailingly appear to connect with audiences. There is an inherent assurance that there is something for everyone. Some of the works are very muscular while others deliver smooth rhythms that flow in time to a heartbeat. Together they share a common bond.

Drawings constitute another entity that enriches Ed's creative landscape. They signal an awakening life force in their daily appearances. Their outlook is bright and cheerful, and their rhythms, forms and spatial qualities are always engaging.

For the artist, they serve to ensure an energy and spirit that can be instantly tapped when approaching complex, long-range projects. As a family, they transcend the role of token studies often assigned to drawings: instead their lightheartedness offers a welcome joy in today's world.

Checking out Ed Harris’ website at www.EdwardKeithHarris.com will afford opportunities to keep in touch with prospective venues, and to enjoy some high-resolution contacts with the richness and drama of his work.