Photo credit: David Harrison, Graffiti Disc Modules #1, n.d., Found graffiti on paper, 13 x 13 in, Collection of the artist
pal•imp•sest
David Harrison
July 31 - August 27, 2025
First Fridays
August 1: Artist Talk 6 p.m.
Artist Statement
A palimpsest is an art piece that has been reused to form another. Historically, monumental church brasses were reused as were medieval documents for the sake of economy. Palimpsests appear frequently throughout the history of art.
Public graffiti appears in numerous locations and can be seen as permanent and is often offensive to some. Graffiti can be removed and it is often covered over. For numerous reasons Graffiti can deteriorate and in some locations can be seen to become detached from the base. When on the ground it takes on a different form and can be “harvested” by anyone.
For a number of years my studio practice has been focused on this “harvested” material which has been reused as a Palimpsest in numerous compositions some of which form the basis of this exhibition. As an artist I am drawn to these surfaces which are rich in colour and texture as well as meaning.
The Artist
David is an art educator trained in the British arts and crafts tradition. After teaching in London he emigrated to Canada where he earned an MA from the University of Calgary and worked for the Calgary Board of Education as art teacher, art consultant, gifted program teacher and fine arts department head. He has worked for the Universities of Calgary and Lethbridge as a sessional instructor. He also worked in the United States as a faculty consultant to the College Board in the Advanced Placement Studio Art Program.
An elected member of the Alberta Society of Artists, the Society of Canadian Artists, and the Canadian Society of Painters in Watercolour, David has been successful in having work accepted into national and international juried exhibitions as well as juried travelling exhibitions. He has won national and International awards. He attended two Emma Lake workshops and is an active supporter of Calgary Urban Sketchers.
David is an experienced awards, exhibition and membership juror and is frequently called upon to critique work of groups and individuals. He also mentors individual artists. His work is represented by The Collectors’ Gallery, located in Calgary.
About the Gallery
The Viewpoint Gallery showcases original works of art by individual artists and collectives, and curated exhibitions. The gallery is in the lobby of the City of Red Deer Culture Services facility. Visit our Viewpoint Gallery page for more information.
Address
5205 48 Ave (in the old intermediate school building)
Hours
Monday to Friday: 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
First Fridays: 8 a.m. – 8 p.m.
*Facility closed: August 4, 2025
Contact
The City of Red Deer, Community Development
403-406-8820
culturemailbox@reddeer.ca
