Elvis artwork by Betty Harper will be showcased at The Center for Southern Folklore, located in Memphis, August 1, 2012 – October 19, 2012 and at the Birthplace of Elvis in Tupelo, Miss., November 1, 2012 – January 15, 2013.
In observance of the 35th anniversary of Elvis' passing and in honor of the 40th anniversary of The Center for Southern Folklore, more than 100 pieces of Betty Harper's original Elvis artwork will be on display for fans around the world to enjoy.
Since she was first entranced by the magic of Elvis in the 50's, Betty has created more than 10,000 portraits of the king, capturing every period of his life. Although Betty's artwork includes drawings of famous statesmen, entertainers and sports heroes, she has become most famous for her portraits of Elvis.
With countless awards and ribbons by the time she graduated from Dreux American High School in France, Betty studied at the American Academy in Paris where she continued to develop as an artist with a style distinctly her own. “The subject matter of my art varies, but my first love has always been faces.” As she grew older, her interest in Elvis intensified. “There was something incredibly inspiring about him. He pushed right to the limit of his potential, always himself, always trying to be the best he could be.” “Every face has a story to tell,” said Betty. “Every time I draw him, I see another side, almost another person. Just when I think I've exhausted all the possibilities, have sketched every angle, every expression, I begin to draw and discover another.”