For his portrait has been added to the permanent collection at the Scottish National Portrait Gallery (SNPG) in Edinburgh.
The internationally known musician from Dumfries, whose real name is Adam Wiles, was photographed by the English photographer Paul Stuart as part of a commission by GQ Italia magazine in February 2015. The large chromogenic print unveiled this week shows the 34-year-old seated on a trestle table, his profile diagonal to the camera, his hands resting on his lap and sleeves rolled up.
Stuart has captured the artist looking deeply thoughtful yet poised. Discussing the sitting, the photographer said: “I found Calvin to be thoughtful and considerate and at 6ft 5’ he is also physically striking. In contrast to his profession, I am interested in silence to create an atmosphere. It is an honour to have my work included in the National Galleries of Scotland.”
Harris’ former high school music teacher, Stewart Solley pictured, was invited to the portrait unveiling on Tuesday, along with Christopher Baker, the director of European and Scottish Art and Portraiture at the National Galleries of Scotland, who said: “Calvin Harris has made a remarkable contribution to music both in Scotland and globally over the last decade and we are absolutely delighted to have him represented in Scotland’s national collection.
“Few artists can equal the impact he has made on contemporary culture, and Paul Stuart’s portrait is a reflective, exceptional image which the many visitors to the Scottish National Portrait Gallery will now be able to enjoy.”
Photo above by Neil Hanna