Chris LaPorte
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Large Scale Commissions
Monumental graphite drawings that transform institutional history, collective memory, and community identity into enduring works of art.
For more than two decades, Chris LaPorte has partnered with universities, corporations, municipalities, religious organizations, and private clients to create large-scale commissioned artworks rooted in research, storytelling, and place. Drawing from archival materials, historical photographs, and community narratives, each project becomes a site-specific work that honors the people, events, and histories that continue to shape an institution's identity.
From initial research to final installation, each commission follows a structured process designed to translate institutional history, community identity, and collective memory into a lasting work of art.
Commission Process
1. Discovery
Every project begins with research and conversation. Chris works with clients, archivists, historians, community members, and institutional stakeholders to gather stories, review archival materials and historical photographs, and identify the people, events, and histories that will shape the final work. This phase establishes both the narrative direction and the goals of the commission.
2. Concept Development
Using research gathered during discovery, Chris develops preliminary concepts, sketches, and compositional studies. Narrative themes, historical references, and visual direction are presented for review and refinement before production begins.
3. Execution
Once approved, the drawing is developed through a highly disciplined process of mark-making in graphite on cotton fiber paper. Work progresses at approximately 4-5 square feet per week, allowing project timelines to be estimated with a high degree of accuracy. For example, an 8' × 12' drawing typically requires approximately 19 weeks of studio production.
4. Installation
Completed works are professionally delivered, installed, and documented. Depending on the project, installation may include collaboration with institutional staff, facilities teams, designers, or project consultants to ensure the work is presented successfully within its intended environment.
'Shenanigans '
2H Pencil on Archival Paper
13 ft H x 20 ft W
2025
In Permanent Collection at Silva
'Homage'
2H Pencil on Archival Paper
10 ft H x 16 ft W
2020
In Permanent Collection at Aquinas College
'Masonic Lodge'
2H Pencil on Archival Paper
13 ft H x 13 ft W
2020
In Permanent Collection at Alma College
'Dominican Sisters of Aquinas'
2H Pencil on Archival Paper
8 ft H x 12 ft w
2018
In Permanent Collection at Marywood/Dominican
'Icebreakers'
2H Pencil on Archival Paper
8 ft H x 12 ft W
2016
In Permanent Collection at East Grand Rapids Parks and Recreation Building
'City Band'
2H Pencil on Archival Paper
13 ft H x 23 ft w
2012
Available for Acquisition
'Family Room'
2H Pencil on Archival Paper
9 ft H x 10 ft W
2014
Available for Acquisition
'City Band'
2H Pencil on Archival Paper
13 ft H x 23 ft w
2012
Available for Acquisition
'Funeral'
2H Pencil on Archival Paper
4 ft H x 6 ft W
2011
Available for Acquisition
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'Cavalry'
2H Pencil on Archival Paper
8 ft H x 28 ft w
2010
In Permanent Collection at Grace Holstein Library, Aquinas College
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