Nightwork

Artist Robert ParkeHarrison American, born 1968

Artist Shana ParkeHarrison American, born 1964

Date2007

MediumInkjet print and acrylic

Dimensions48 x 61 3/4 in. (121.9 x 156.8 cm)

ClassificationsPhotography

Credit LineGift of Allen G. Thomas Jr. in honor of Lawrence J. Wheeler

Object number2014.14.45

On View

Not on view

Label TextPartners Robert and Shanna Parke Harrison use a painstaking process of constructing props, piecing together negatives, and applying top coats of paint to create the surreal world of their images. In their dreamlike scenes they engage with pressing environmental issues and comment on humanity’s duty to care for the home we inhabit. Robert often poses as subject in the pair’s work—dressed in an ordinary pinstripe suit the character of “Everyman” sets out against formidable odds to save Earth and right the imbalances human activity in nature has caused.

In Night Work we only see the legs of “Everyman” who is in the process of lighting two yellow candlesticks perched on the tips of his shoes. The light from the candlesticks brings captivating warmth to the center of the otherwise dark composition. This image conveys a sense of hope—although it is night “Everyman” is tireless in his efforts and even though his task is overwhelming he walks forward in light and perseverance.
[L. Dougherty, 2014]
ProvenanceCreated United States, 2007; collection of the artists; [Jack Shainman Gallery, New York]; Allen G. Thomas Jr., Wilson, NC, 2008; given to NCMA, 2014.

Published ReferencesRobert and Shana ParkeHarrison, Counterpoint (Santa Fe: Twin Palms Publishers, 2008), illus. (color) 9.

“Private Eye: Allen G. Thomas Jr. Photography Collection,” in North Carolina Museum of Art Preview (Fall 2014), illus. (color) 27.
Exhibition HistoryRaleigh, NC, North Carolina Museum of Art, "Private Eye: Allen G. Thomas Jr. Photography Collection," September 13, 2014–March 22, 2015.

Raleigh, North Carolina Museum of Art, “Night (Light),” September 30, 2017–January 28, 2018. Object Rights Statement

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