Today we’d like to introduce you to Neko Harris.
Neko, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I was born and raised on the west side of Chicagoland in Maywood, IL. I am the youngest of 3 brothers and have been married to my beautiful wife for 4 years now. My artist journey didn’t really begin until roughly 2 yrs ago. However, I have been drawing since I was 6 years old. Growing up, comics and anything superhero related pretty much inspired and drove my thirst to create works of my own. But it wasn’t until I was in high school I believe that I truly started to understand what my art means to me. How much I depended on it to relieve any stress, my anxieties, express any emotions that I wasn’t able to speak or translate a concept. Growing up, I didn’t have that much experience with solid teachers for my craft except for one. Her name was Mrs. Hill. Without her, I don’t think I would have stepped out of my single box of just copying others work. She challenged me to push beyond what I was used to and comfortable with.
After high school, I spent a year at Columbia College Chicago, however, couldn’t stay due to financial restrictions Years later, in combination with the constant encouragement I receive from my family, I continue to expand my style and push past all boundaries set before me. I strongly believe that if I haven’t already done it already, then, it’s only a matter of time. I’ve been fortunate enough to have produced two solo exhibitions last year while currently working in my third for later this year. In addition, a plethora of locally based shows with some of Chicago’s dopest creators. I am truly am blessed for the amount of support that I have had over the last few years on my journey and I am looking forward to what the future holds.
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?
Any Journey worth experiencing isn’t smooth sailing. My story is no different, from living in a pretty rough neighborhood as a child to not being able to pursue a traditional education in Fine Arts, to constantly reinventing your own personal brand, I’ve had to encounter a little bit of everything there is. I would say my biggest challenge I’ve experienced is teaching myself all the art techniques that I practice. Due to a lack of professional training, I’ve essentially had to observe some of my favorite artists throughout the years and practice their methods and techniques until I developed my own.
Secondly is keeping up with materials (Canvases paints, etc.), it is pretty costly to keep up but I believe that strong investment in such is essential to the having a fruitful art career.
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into the Neko Harris Art story. Tell us more about the business.
I am a freelance artist who specializes in hand-drawn illustrations and paintings. My medium consists of pencils, inks, markers and acrylic paints. A lot of my work is heavily concentrated in dynamic comic book art style, involving a plethora of superheroes as well as a deep focus on black culture and all of its beauty. My pride lies in my ability to effectively execute my vision all by hand. it is immensely time-consuming but extremely satisfying and worthwhile. I take special in showcasing a positive image for black people and black culture while fusing various elements that continually inspire me.
I think what sets me apart is my attention to specific details and my dedication to my craft. I will literally spend hours on a project until I believe it is where it should be. Otherwise, I just start over completely.
Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and business?
I believe that I been very blessed and fortunate to be where I am now and learning from my experiences, thus far. but I also know that I’ve been extremely lucky in a couple situations throughout my art career. I’m grateful for both, lol!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.nekoharris.com
- Phone: 708-704-5667
- Email: nekoharris89@yahoo.com
- Instagram: @nekotheartist
- Facebook: Neko Harris
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