British light artist Chris Levine has captured some of the most famous faces in the world, from Kate Moss and Grace Jones to his Holiness the Dalai Lama, as well as creating light shows for fashion and music. But it is the holographic portrait of Queen Elizabeth II that most stands out in the national consciousness and has become a 21st-century icon
Did you always want to be an artist?
Actually, I wanted to be an architect, but the qualification time took too long at that point in my life. I was impatient and studied Graphics for my degree at the Chelsea School of Art and Central St Martins.
How did you come to be a pioneer in the field of light art? What does this involve?
I’ve always been interested in new technologies; lasers and holography had me hooked when I left art school. I saw it as future graphics and the beginning of a new art form. It seemed very much a laboratory exercise and as an art form had great potential. I was excited to be involved and was lucky to work with some of the best developers in the field and we set new standards together. My work is often collaborative and involves applying technology in unusual ways to make them more unexpected and experiential.
Your most famous work to date, Lightness of Being, a holographic portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, is recognised as a 21st-century icon. Can you tell us about how it came about and what it meant to create a portrait of Her Majesty?
I was commissioned by Jersey Heritage Trust to create a modern portrait that celebrated the relationship of Jersey to the monarchy. It was a huge responsibility given that she is the most portrayed woman in history. I approached the commission with a view to creating an iconic work that was worthy of the historic occasion. The pressure was on but luckily it all worked out.
His Holiness the Dalai Lama sat for a portrait during a visit to the UK, and you donated the proceeds to various Nepalese earthquake charities. As a practising meditator, this must have been a very special and significant commission…
Yes, it was a great privilege and I’d dreamt to do his portrait. He is such a wonderful human being and I feel blessed to have been close to him. I was first taught vipassana meditation in Nepal and to know that this work is going to benefit those who have suffered in that special part of the world is humbling.
You have also worked names from Kate Moss and Stella McCartney to the legendary Grace Jones. Who, if anyone, would you like to work with next?
It was my hope for a long time that I’d work with David Bowie as years ago I designed a hologram with him. I saw his portrait for a long time in my mind and was sure it was meant to be and I had reached out to him. Alas.
What would you say is the biggest influence on your work?
Increasingly I’m informed through my meditation. Somehow things become clear and ideas manifest as if aligned to a higher order.
What do you do for relaxation when you’re not working?
Meditation is now a big part of my life. I would have spontaneously combusted a long time ago had I not learnt how to get still… really still.
If you would like to learn more about Chris Levine’s portrait commissions and installation work, please contact Lucie@beyond-bespoke.com
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