Welcome to Sun Valley Contemporary Gallery! For those discovering your work for the first time, how would you describe your artistic style and the emotions you hope to evoke? 

I would describe my painting style as contemporary, bold, figurative work, with a hint of a vintage vibe. The paintings speak to the central issues of human existence- love and loss, impermanence and beauty, and our interconnectedness to each other, past and present. My intention is for the viewer to feel joy and thoughtfulness, with the initial beauty of the painting to draw us in and the depth of the painting to hold our interest. 

Your work is known for its intricate layers and rich textures. Can you walk us through your creative process? How do you build depth and meaning in your pieces? 

My creative process usually starts with imagery found from many different sources. When I was young, I fell in love with the glamour and style of old movies. I still watch old movies and sketch and take photos to work from. I also have stacks of vintage magazines and old slides. Now, friends and family send me photos as well! The imagery is the starting point. There’s usually a figure or setting that I love to start with. Then I sketch and figure out the composition, sometimes bringing in models as well. When it’s time to actually paint, I build up layer upon layer, starting with an ochre underpainting. The layers need to dry in between, so I usually have quite a few paintings going at a time. The layers add depth and interest naturally.

Sun Valley has a deep appreciation for both nature and contemporary art. What elements of your work do you think will resonate most with collectors and art lovers here? 

My work shows a deep appreciation of nature, especially figures in the natural world as part of the natural world- not separate from nature or looking at nature, but an integral part of nature. For instance, the skier is interacting with the snow and the mountain, and is a part of it as well. So, I treat the figure and the environment around the figure as a whole. My wish is that your collectors will identify with the subjects and feel what it’s like to be enjoying the experience of the mountain or the lake. 

Your paintings have a unique, almost meditative quality to them. What inspires you to create, and how do you know when a piece is complete? 

Thank you. The inspiration to create seems to be a bottomless well for me. I’m inspired by SO much, that I have to reign it in to be a normal person. As I mentioned, old movies and vintage photos inspire me, but so does just taking a walk at the beach or going to the mountains or a cool color on someone’s scarf. There’s no end! The painting definitely let’s me know when it’s finished. It’s obvious when it’s time for me to stop messing about with it.

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Every artist has a personal connection to their work. Is there a particular piece or series that holds special significance for you? 

I definitely have personal favorites. Interestingly enough, my favorite paintings are not usually the most popular, although they can be. The Lost Holiday series put my work on the map, so to speak. Then Noir and Close Up were a natural evolution from the Lost Holiday series. I love bringing the past to the present and making it relevant for today. 

As you begin this new chapter with us in Sun Valley, what excites you most about sharing your work with this community? 

I am SO excited to start this new chapter in Sun Valley. Visiting and skiing Sun Valley has been on my bucket list for years. I’m delighted to introduce my paintings to your collectors with some classic winter scenes!

Tracey Harris’ ability to blend nostalgia with contemporary artistry creates an unforgettable visual experience. Her figures, deeply rooted in nature and memory, invite viewers into a world of beauty, depth, and reflection. Whether you’re drawn to her intricate layers or the compelling narratives within each piece, her collection offers something truly special for Sun Valley. 

We invite you to explore her latest works at Sun Valley Contemporary Gallery. Discover a piece that resonates with you and become part of the story she so masterfully tells.

VIEW ALL THE PIECES HERE