Up from the rogue quarters of Minneapolis’ NE side, local artist Nicholas Harper prepares to unveil his latest collection of haunting silhouettes in his upcoming Gallery 360 exhibition entitled, Le Femme Noir.  Harper is known for his porcelainesque portraits of atypical beauties that languish in ethereal backdrops. In this show, he has concentrated on elaborate environments for his portraits to lurk that reveal to the viewer a more intimate dialog between subject and setting.  In one piece, a dangling spider hanging from the leaf of a delicate rose petal marries with the strewn letter of Beethoven’s immortal beloved, while in another work entitled “Bella Donna” a porn star is almost deified by Harper’s portrayal.  His masterful oil painting style, which he describes best as “magical realism” involves supernatural human features, exaggerated body proportions, and fleeting elements of fantastical surrounds. These provocative works are sure to hearken audiences with the magic and passion surrounding Harper’s chosen, Le Femme Noir.