New exhibition at York Art Gallery: York born Harland Miller

Yorkshire born artist and author Harland Miller’s new exhibition, tiled XXX is currently on display at York Art Gallery, running until the 31st August.

This is his second exhibition at the gallery, showcasing paintings from his Letter Paintings series.

Speaking about his new exhibition and what the city of York means to him, Harland said: “York is a city of perpetual mystery and history, including my own, and it always draws me back. It’s especially exciting to be sharing this with everyone – not once, but twice.”

Harland grew up in Yorkshire in the 1970s, books and humour being important parts of his formative years and artistic development. He also cites his time in New York and experience with Pop Art and Abstract Expressionism as key artistic influences.

His Letter Paintings series focuses on using short, simple words to create meaningful impacts. Taking inspiration from letter design in medieval manuscripts with a “pop art sensibility,” his letter paintings allow the viewer to re-explore meanings and connotations of everyday language.

Senior Curator for York Art Gallery Dr Beatrice Bertram said about his work: “His clever use of language and colour encourages us to encounter everyday words afresh, as he lays letters over one another in an intriguing process of deconstruction and reconnection.”

Harland has also donated several paintings focusing on York and surrounding areas from his Bad Weather Paintings series in advance of the exhibition.

Alongside the display, the gallery is also running various workshops, such as “colour”, focusing on printing in wood type to explore meaning through various colours, and “Three Letter Postcards” printing letters and colours to explore the effect of layering. All are priced at £40, tickets can be purchased here.

Buy tickets for the gallery here. Aged 17-24 and student entry currently costs £7.65.