Harrell Fletcher Highlight

Harrell Fletcher

Social Artist

When you're doing what you think is the right thing to do, you're going to be a happier, more satisfied person.

About Harrell

Was always encouraged to make art; started drawing at age 10, picked up photography down the line.
Went to a state university, then transferred to an art institute; realized he'd started to lose his creative impulse, was too focused on success.
Took a year to teach art at a grade school to get back in touch with his "original intentions" for making art.
Was inspired by a five-year-old who'd make a book about something he loved, show all of his friends, throw it away, and make a new one.
When he went back to do his MFA, he realized he didn't want to make art in a studio; he wanted to interact with local places and people.
Developed "social art" while working with a Portland gas station owner-gave this man the means to live out his dream of shooting a video at his gas station.
Acted on the gas station owner's vision, used Portland residents in the film, invited the participants to the showing-made it a communal artwork.
Says you have the option to be selfish and greedy, but it's more "interesting, satisfying, and fun to try to contribute [to society] in a positive way."