Bradford College

Talented Artist Set to Follow in David Hockney's Footsteps...

The latest rising star to emerge from the Bradford School of Arts and Media is the talented British artist Richard Harris.  Richard, currently studying Art and Design at Bradford College was talent spotted by Bradford College officials when he exhibited work at a Bradford College Fair in October 2010.  

The event organised by Bradford Enterprise Academy, aims to stimulate interest in enterprise, enhance students’ entrepreneurial skills and increase opportunities for start-up businesses and students going into self employment.

The Bradford College Fair in October played host to the best in new generation talent, showcasing a talented group of up and coming British designers and artists.

Principal, Michele Sutton, OBE visited the fair and was impressed by the high standard of work that Richard and other talented students had produced.  In a bid to encourage enterprise, Principal, Michele Sutton, OBE invited the students to create a unique piece of artwork to hang in her office.  Richard took the initiative and was commissioned to paint the striking piece of art that is now on display in Principal, Michele Sutton's office.

Speaking about how it felt to be commissioned to produce an original piece of art by the Principal of Bradford College, Richard said: “It’s a privilege. Having the Principal of Bradford College liking my work has given me further motivation to go forward, push myself harder to do well and succeed.”

Richard continued: “Making a career and a living out of painting is not always the easiest thing to do, so getting this commission has given me the confidence to get my work out there, get noticed and succeed."

Richard also credits much of his success to Course Tutor Dale Cochrane and Lecturer  Rich Jones for the encouragement and support he’s received whilst on the course.  Richard had previously studied Art and Design at a previous institution but felt the course wasn’t right for him.  Taking a two year break from Education, Richard decided to enrol on a course at Bradford College and has never looked back.

When asked what Richard’s plans for the future held, he replied: “Painting – it’s my passion!”

Business Counsellor for Bradford Enterprise Academy Vikas Gera added: “The aim of the Enterprise Academy is to help students unlock their potential.  I’m really pleased that Richard has received the recognition he deserves as an artist. Apart from the sales and profit he has made, the recognition Richard has received at this level with the Principal is a big honour.  I’m really delighted this commission has given Richard the opportunity to demonstrate his creative and entrepreneurial talents!”

Principal Michele Sutton, OBE said: “It’s really difficult for young artists to get a platform for their work, so I suggested we commissioned an original piece of artwork to display in my office.  It’s the first commission Richard’s had.  He spent time with me finding out what I liked, doing lots of research to ensure he meet the brief.”

“He presented the finished painting to me a few weeks ago to see if I liked it - and I immediately did! I was really pleased with the finished results and told Richard we’d buy it.”

Principal Michele Sutton, OBE smiled warmly and said: “When Richard’s a millionaire like Banksy, the British internationally acclaimed street artist or former Bradford College student David Hockney, we will be really proud that we have one of his originals at the College.”   World-famous artist David Hockney, studied at the College’s School of Arts & Media from 1953 – 1957 and his artwork ‘The Hypnotist’ has been on displayed in Principal Michele Sutton’s office.

Principal Michele Sutton concluded: "I’m really pleased we could help to start Richard’s career and I’m confident that he has a bright and promising future ahead of him.”