2023 Fu’una “27,000 Miles" Solo Exhibition at the Atrium Gallery

Rhode Island State Council on the Arts presents “27,000 Miles”, a Solo Exhibition by artist Fu’una, on display at the Atrium Gallery @ One Capitol Hill. This exhibition features 30 pieces of artwork in an array of media that includes pastel.

“My intrigue for nature stems from my childhood,” Fu’una said. “The presence of animals in my life has had a particular impact on my sense of wonder.”

Woonsocket-born, Glocester-raised and Providence-based, artist Fu’una (aka Kameko Branchaud) has lived in five regions of America, but her roots are in Rhode Island. Best known for her poignancy and vibrant use of color, she uses creative methodologies to connect with her surroundings. She’s taken figure drawing lessons since the age of 16 and has a well-rounded studio background in painting, color theory and anatomical drawing.

Fu’una earned her master’s in art and design education from RISD in 2014, and her bachelor’s in art education from Rhode Island College in 2013. Her portrait Masakåda received First Honorable Mention in the Pawtucket Arts Collaborative 2022 Foundation Show. In 2017 her mural So Pretty It Hurts won first place in Punto Urban Art Museum’s juried mural competition of 20 local artists. She is currently an Associate Member of the Pastel Society of America.

Atrium Gallery at One Capitol Hill
Rhode Island State Council on the Arts (RISCA) developed the Atrium Gallery to recognize talented artists from communities throughout the state. The Atrium Gallery hosts multidisciplinary exhibitions in partnership with diverse artists and cultural organizations. The gallery features a stunning tall glass ceiling with light that cascades into an open space surrounded by three walls of artwork. This has become a destination point for visitors and the many people who frequent the Administration offices at One Capitol Hill, while enriching the environment for hundreds of state workers in the building.

Solo Exhibitions Program
The Atrium Gallery hosts solo exhibitions each year displaying an array of mediums that includes but is not limited to paintings, photography, textiles, and installation. The public gallery features emerging and established artists who are interested in exploring and showcasing their creative vision through an exceptional body of work. Selected artists are provided an installation preparatory specialist, promotional brochure or postcard, opening gallery reception, as well as being included in RISCA’s website and newsletter.

The Rhode Island State Council on the Arts is a state agency supported by appropriations from the Rhode Island General Assembly and grants from the National Endowment for the Arts, a federal agency. RISCA provides grants, technical assistance and staff support to arts organizations and artists, schools, community centers, social service organizations and local governments to bring the arts into the lives of Rhode Islanders. To learn more visit www.arts.ri.gov