Talese Michelle Harris
it's all in your head
My practice is rooted in the exploration of identity, culture, and human experience. Central to my artistic inquiry is a focus on the portrayal of marginalized Black eccentrics, with a particular emphasis on the nuanced narratives of Black women and the mystical dimensions of their existence.
A recurrent motif within my work is the fusion of realism with alternative realities, reflecting a desire to blur boundaries and challenge conventional perceptions. Employing Black folk art as a sophisticated medium to convey complex narratives, the theme of "otherness" is deeply embedded, inviting viewers to reflect on Black identity and the ways in which cultural heritage shapes individual and collective experiences.
I am inherently drawn to the exploration of paradoxical human behavior and existential anxieties, which manifest in my art through the portrayal of voyeuristic "in-between" moments akin to cinematic snapshots. These vignettes serve as portals into the subconscious, prompting viewers to confront their own perceptions of reality and identity.
Throughout my body of work, there exists an underlying intensity that simmers beneath the surface, imbued with nuanced and disquieting undertones, drenched in magickal Black beauty.
the only way out is in
Emerging from the urban landscape of Detroit, Talese Michelle Harris, a versatile artist of diverse disciplines, commenced her artistic odyssey initially as a vocalist and thespian. Notable among her early accomplishments is her portrayal of Iris in Spike Lee's acclaimed work "Jungle Fever" and her leading role in the critically acclaimed independent production “A Complicated Cartoon." Harris furthered her artistic exploration by venturing into music, where she showcased her talents by writing, producing, and performing for Riot Baby's experimental album, "Notes From The Underground," in 2001. Expanding her creative horizon, Harris delved into filmmaking in 2010, where she both produced and directed "Alice," a poignant short film that explores themes of societal disenchantment and personal emancipation. Through the lens of a struggling single mother who seeks solace through the realm of escapism, this project not only exemplified Harris's artistic versatility but also underscored her thematic engagement with issues of identity, liberation, and the human condition. Academically, Talese Michelle Harris attained her Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Wayne State University. Beyond her personal artistic endeavors, Harris shares her passion and knowledge as an art educator at the esteemed Detroit Institute of Arts, where she nurtures the creative potential of future generations, contributing to the cultural enrichment of her community and beyond.