Lakeland Arts has acquired two stunning works by Kendal-based artist Lela Harris. Currently on display in the Collections Galleries at Abbot Hall, the works accompany the likes of George Romney, Kurt Schwitters, Celia Paul and Joan Eardley.
Harris is a self-taught artist, exploring the stories of those who are overlooked and marginalised by society. Her portraiture explores the idea of identity and belonging, with every subject delicately observed. Each work offers a glimpse into the lives, aspirations and fears of ordinary people, reflecting how fundamentally as humans we are alike.
The artist’s work is held in private collections around the globe, as well as in public collections including Abbot Hall, Judges’ Lodgings Museum and Lancaster University. Last year, Harris was commissioned to produce work for Black Lancastrians: Facing the Past, a solo exhibition at Judges’ Lodgings Museum in Lancaster. Told through a collection of evocative portraits the work delved into the stories of Black individuals who lived in Lancaster during the 1700s. The exhibition received national recognition and was a finalist for the Museum Association’s Decolonising Museums Award. Lela’s work has recently been selected for the annual New English Art Club Open Call Exhibition, which opens on 13 June at Mall Galleries, London.
The two additions to Lakeland Arts’ collection are titled Rosina (2023) and Between Two Suns. Rosina (pictured below, on the left) is a drawing on canvas depicting the face of an unknown person. The portrait has a timeless quality, as the subject is removed from a sense of identity or narrative. Between Two Suns (pictured below, on the right) explores the concept of the ‘unfinished’ painting. Created using the traditional method of applying thin, raw umber oil paint, the artist deliberately pauses the artistic process, inviting us to contemplate what the next chapter in the young man’s journey could be.
On the left, ‘Rosina’ (2023) and on the right, ‘Between Two Suns’.
Artist Lela Harris, says “I’m absolutely thrilled that my work has been acquired by Lakeland Arts for Abbot Hall. It’s a dream come true to have my work on display in such a special and inspiring space and I’m really honoured to have my work on show amongst such esteemed artistic company.”
Discover beautiful artwork by Lela Harris at Abbot Hall. There are currently four of the artist’s pieces on display in the Collections Galleries, including the new acquisitions.
Discover more of Lela Harris’ work on her website lelaharris.co.uk
Facing the Past : Black Lancastrians Exhibition:
New English Art Club Open Call Exhibition:
https://www.newenglishartclub.co.uk/annual-exhibition/
