This feature’s text and photography is by artist Jenna Putnam.
Looking at the paintings of Harley Cortez feels like traversing some sort of ancient landscape, a surreal and poignant experience unique. Gentle stains of colour laced with charcoal etchings of prose, the pieces are a glimpse at the inner workings of the human mind; as much psychological as they are visceral. Look closer and you will see Cortez contains multitudes. Aside from three solo shows coming up in Mexico City, New York, and Berlin, Harley has been busy making short films that he’s directed, acted in, and scored as well as composing an arresting collection of music.
An Inventory of Memory: Volume II is the second part of four avant-classical instrumental albums. Created with a sense of urgency, the songs are a continuation of Cortez’s successful attempt at turning loss into beauty: after the passing of his mother and his nephew this past year, he took refuge in his art, and has emerged with a body of work that speaks directly to the soul.
