Shanelle Harrison

Origin: Columbia, MD
Birth Year: 1997

In my culture, oral history is imperative. The art of storytelling keeps our ancestors alive and with us. Our stories document/trace/mark our journey both individually and collectively.

I ritualize acts of collecting, preserving, and commemorating stories in my art practice. By preserving fragments of my memories, I am choosing not to let go. I manifest these fragments through sculptures, prints, installations, and wreaths.

My wreaths function as an outward expression of grief. The wreath form draws inspiration from the ornamentation of my childhood in Maryland. My first encounter with wreaths began with my mother adorning our door with seasonal wreaths. I carry the significance of this object with me, embedding the fragments of my home.

“How Do I Feel at Home in A White Space?”, 2022
Wood, Ink, Glass Beads, Crystal Beads, Floral Foam, Charcoal, Faux Plants, Moss
60" × 48"

“First Date”, 2023
Materials: Hand-Applied Silkscreen Ink, Acrylic Ink, Acrylic Paint, Glass Beads, Filler Foam, Charcoal, Rope, Moss, Wood. Wreath Stand: Wood, Metal, Molding Paste, Acrylic Paint, Hand-applied silkscreen Ink, Tattoo Ink, Acrylic Ink
84" × 60"

First Day of Spring, 2023
Heat Transfer, Acrylic Ink, Acrylic Paint, Glass Beads, Crystal Rhinestones, Moss, Floral Foam, White Chalk, Conte Crayon, Charcoal, Wood, Pyrogravure. Wreath Stand: Wood, Metal, Molding Paste, Acrylic Paint, Hand-applied Silkscreen Ink, Glass, Glass Beads
60" × 84"