Meet Phil Harris of Phillustrations in South east

Today we’d like to introduce you to Phil Harris.

Phil, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I began my illustration/arts career before graduating from the undergraduate illustration program at RMCAD (Rocky Mountain College of Art & Design}. After graduation, I eventually was accepted into the MFA illustration program at SVA (School of Visual Art in NYC).

While in N.Y. did commission work I earned my Masters, as a student I was published in PLAYBOY magazine, I had some group, and solo shows here and there between Manhattan and Brooklyn, and I even had a show at the iconic CBGB’s on the lower east side.

 In 2008 I moved back to Denver and continued my art/illustration work here where I also began tutoring and eventually teaching at RMCAD. I also began vending/showing my art at a variety of group and solo shows, comics conventions and art festivals.

We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Being a type 1 diabetic, and some substance abuse issues on top of other health problems have made the road I’ve been on a rocky one, at times a very stressful and difficult path to navigate.

However, recently things have really sort of been looking up and I am able to make great strides in getting back to my creative self.

We’d love to hear more about your art.
My work comes from, at times a very dark place, a darker aesthetic if you will. I was once referred to as a “gothic caricaturist” by someone at the (Westword magazine) here in Denver. The work I create is typically inspired by literature, (primarily Horror, mysteries and history but I find inspiration everywhere. The mediums that I prefer to work with are many, Paint mediums include oils, acrylics, guache, and watercolors.

 Also color pencils, charcoal, graphite, and ink.

What were you like growing up?
Growing up I mostly was a loner. I loved to read and mostly preferred to hang out with older folks and I used to listen to their stories, mostly of the WW2 variety. I began drawing at an early age, mostly due to the encouragement of my grandfather who drew in his own youth.

Back then I was mostly inspired by cartoons, movies (sci-fi, fantasy and horror).

Pricing:

• Most of my work pricing is determined by medium, size and subject matter. Itypically begin at $100.00 – $400 and add cost depending on changes and or extras as requested by the client.

Contact Info:

• Address: http://www.phillustrations.net
• Website: http://www.phillustrations.net
• Email: spooky1343@gmail.com
• Instagram: Instagram at phillustrations13
• Facebook: Phil R Harris

Image Credit:
Phil R Harris

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