Ever since the country, and the rest of the world, was able to take a collective deep breath upon the announced 2020 election results, I’ve found myself bathing in waves of gratitude. Our country has way more work to do reaching for social justice, addressing the threats of climate change, and tackling election reform (the list could go on), but this week called for a moment of celebration. Saturday’s election results sparked a bit of optimism for the future, opening up brain space for more personal reflection and less news feed refreshing in my life.
There is one thing in particular that continues to show up in my moments of reflection. I am so grateful for the opportunity to make art in times of stress. As an artist, I find that every life experience influences my work, sometimes clearly influencing a palette choice and other times in less conscious ways. Although the heart of my recent Wagon Hill Farm paintings are rooted in the practice of plein air landscape painting, abstraction, and color, they are inextricably linked to the political, social, and emotional climate of the past few months. The content of the work doesn’t always reveal those feelings, but they will always sit on the same shelf in my mind. They are a reminder that even amid stress and pandemonium, we are capable of being still and absorbing the beauty that exists in the world. Each piece is documentation of a moment of pausing to observe and be present. May we all strive to be present in each day.
Seeing this collection come together brings me an immense sense of gratitude. I’m thankful that I have committed to holding quiet space for myself throughout this past year, but I’m also thankful for the ability to share that with you. I am currently framing and photographing the first batch of Wagon Hill paintings in preparation for a shop update this Monday, November 16 at 4 pm EST. Newsletter subscribers will receive priority access 24 hours in advance.
As always, thank you so much for caring to read my thoughts and explore my work. I’m sending so much love!
XO
Bri