Lela Harris Exhibition

Friday 18th September - Sunday 18th October 2026 - 10am- 5pm - The Old School Gallery, Alnmouth

Creatively curious by nature, her work is inspired by her imagination, historical research, documentary photography and the possibilities of different mediums, techniques and surfaces resulting in an eclectic mix of work with a strong focus on portraiture.

Harris’ creative practice is driven by a desire to uncover the stories of those often overlooked and marginalised by history. Adding humanity and a full inner life to the characters she depicts, each subject is an exploration of identity and belonging. Through sensitively observed figurative paintings and drawings her work seeks to explore and expand our understanding of the everyday lives hopes dreams and fears of ordinary people in a bid to close gaps in representation.

Receiving nationwide recognition of her work Harris was recently a finalist for the Museums Association Decolonisation Award 2023 for her ‘Black Lancastrians’ Exhibition at Judges’ Lodgings Museum in Lancaster and awarded Runner Up in the V&A Illustration Awards 2022 Book Cover Category for her work on the first illustrated edition of ‘The Color Purple’ by Alice Walker, published by the Folio Society. Harris’ work resides in private collections around the world and has been acquired by several public collections including Abbot Hall Gallery, Kendal Judges’ Lodgings Museum, Lancaster and Lancaster University.

Exhibition catalogue available at: www.theoldschoolgallery.co.uk

Admission is free.

Gallery Open Monday - Sunday 10am-5pm (Sunday 10am-4pm)

Gallery Cafe Open Monday - Sunday 10am-4pm (Sunday 10am-3pm)

T: 01665 830554

E: [email protected] 

W: www.theoldschoolgallery.co.uk