Erin Harris Art

Banna + Bee

In 1947 at age 20, my grandmother and her childhood best friend turned in their war bonds and used the money to buy a 1941 Chevy Club Coupe. The two traveled the country, my grandma taking photos throughout their adventures.

They sold the car in ‘53, but the photos continue through my mom’s childhood, until around 1972 when I suppose it didn’t make sense to have photos printed on slides anymore. Since I was a child, I’ve spent hours getting lost in the photos, imagining I’m another friend riding along in the back seat. I am extremely honored to be the keeper of these original photos, printed on 35mm slides. By painting the moments from my grandmother’s memories, I sink deeper into her experiences, uncovering connections, the threads of our lives woven together with time.

Double Rainbow – Somewhere in Montana Marion Harris

My beloved grandma, Marion Harris, or “Banna” as everyone now calls her, will be turning 100 years old this year. My mom as the eldest child is the original busy “bee,” and each subsequent child, grandchild and great-grandchild has earned the title as well. Banna amazes me with the stories she still remembers about her travels. I’m so grateful to be one of her Bees.

The first three in this collection, the paintings and corresponding photos, are on display at Windermere West Metro in West Seattle until the end of March 2026.

4526 California Ave SW, Seattle WA, 98116

Floating Bridge

2019 I-90 Commute

I have found two slides in Banna’s slide collection which were taken in Seattle. Both of the photos happen to be of the floating bridge. In 2019, the (since rebuilt) floating bridge became a part of my daily commute. I have tried to find the spot where the original photo was taken, but have been unsuccessful on multiple occasions.

Yellowstone Bear

In Her Wheels

Yellowstone bears were apparently extremely unafraid of humans in the early ’50’s. It was a pleasure hearing stories from other people who had similar experiences with bears in Yellowstone.

Crater Lake

Mirrored

I have yet to visit this spot and attempt to find the exact place where this photo was taken. It is on my ever-lengthening list of Banna’s adventure locations I hope to visit someday.