Robert Harrison

1953 Born Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada

EDUCATION

1975 BFA Ceramics, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada

1981 MFA Ceramics, University of Denver, Denver, Colorado

SELECTED RESIDENCIES

1983–1985 Archie Bray Foundation, Helena, Montana

1989 Kohler Company – Arts/Industry Program, Sheboygan, Wisconsin

1994 Anderson Ranch, Snowmass Village, Colorado

1999 Medalta International Artists-in-Residence Program; Medicine Hat, Alberta, Canada

2000 National Academy of Art and Design, Oslo, Norway

2003 International Ceramics Festival; University of Wales, Aberystwyth, Wales, United Kingdom

2004 University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky

2006 International Ceramics Studio; Kecskmet, Hungary

2007 Arta Park; Alassio, Italy

2009 Australian National University, School of Art, Canberra, A.C.T., Australia

2014 Danish International Wood Fire Conference; Guldagergaard, Skaelskor, Denmark

2015 WABA: Clayarch Gimhae Museum of Architectural Ceramics, Gimhae, Republic of Korea

PRIMARY WORK EXPERIENCE

1980–1981 Graduate Teaching Assistant-Ceramics, University of Denver, Denver, Colorado

1981–1983 Assistant Professor of Art, Ceramics Department Head, Gonzaga University, Spokane, Washington

1985 Ceramics Instructor, The Archie Bray Foundation for the Ceramic Arts, Helena, Montana

1985–1987 Assistant to the Head, Ceramics, The Banff Centre School for the Arts, Banff, Alberta, Canada

1987–1988 Lecture Tour of the British Isles (10 lectures)

1988–1989 Acting Head, Ceramics, The Banff Centre for the Arts, Banff, Alberta, Canada

BIOGRAPHY

Robert Harrison is known for his large-scale site-specific architectural installations that incorporate brick and other materials. Smaller scale studio works include gallery installations, one of kind ceramic objects and multiples.

Harrison’s early career focused on the ceramic vessel, and then took a decidedly sculptural turn in the early 1980’s. His work grew in scale and complexity, and developed into his own identifiable style. The artist is heavily influenced by historic and contemporary world architecture, cultures and aesthetic.

Harrison states that the ‘Architecture of Space’ has become the focus of his artistic exploration. Harrison’s recent work in both large and small-scale studio objects has led to work opportunities with brick and tile manufacturers around the world. By partnering with industry, the artist investigates new tools and materials that support all aspects of his creative practice.

From 2004 to 2010 Harrison was President of the Board of National Council on Education for the Ceramic Arts (N.C.E.C.A.) and in 2011 he was made a fellow of N.C.E.C.A.