Statement

I have an affinity for nostalgia, myth, and nature conveyed in a contemporary way. Memories and shared experiences that are rooted in feelings and the subconscious informs much of my work. I believe this is why my art has been described as mysterious yet familiar.

Layers and texture are the cornerstone of my work. The look of the artist’s hand is apparent with the use of self-made stamps, stencils, and collage elements. Papers are created using mono printing and other techniques which are integrated into the paintings. This adds interest through nuanced line, pattern, and texture that is apparent even in the finer details.

Being an intuitive creator, I find the work can take on a life of its own as I respond to each element used along the way. That is what excites me most as an artist. 

The Process

• I work primarily in acrylic mediums, while also using collage, pastel, ink and other art mediums.
• All layers are fully dried and cured.
• I create an isolation coat using gloss acrylic medium before varnishing. This coat gives a unified finish and nice luster.
• I use a non-yellowing, archival, UV resistant, polymer, water based varnish. It is also non-removable.
• All canvas is pre-primed with gesso. All panels are primed with gesso or water based Kilz brand primer and then gessoed.
• 300 GSM paper is used for works on paper which are matted for presentation as well as framing.
• Canvas and cradled panels are wired and ready to hang. Flat panels are standard sizes for easy framing.
• I use professional materials and mediums to ensure archival quality.

Juried Exhibits

Dec 17, 2022 The Arts, Hancock Arts, (MS) "Shook" and "Aglow"

2020 - 2021 "Covid Times"

Dec 7-15, 2019 The Arts, Hancock Arts, (MS) “Emerging Territory” AWARD: 2nd Place Acrylic / Mixed Media

Dec 1- 15, 2018 The Arts Hancock Arts (MS) “Dormant Dream”

March 23 to April-24, 2018 Arts Alive! Hancock Arts MS “Day After Day” AWARD: Honorable Mention Painting / Multi Media

Other Exhibits

Fall 2021 Ocean Springs, MS Annual P’ARTake Exhibit “Untethered”

Fall 2019 Ocean Springs, MS Annual P’ARTake Exhibit “That Floral”

Jan 19-Feb 17, 2019 The Arts, Hancock, Exhibit at Studio Waveland, MS “Dormant Dream”

Fall 2018 Ocean Springs, MS Annual P’ARTake Exhibit “Mutable”

Memberships

2018 - Present The Arts, Hancock County Hancock Co, MS

2017- 2022 Ocean Springs Art Association Ocean Springs, MS

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For more info email Melissa Brauen at melissa@melissabrauen.com