Behind the Studio
My journey to the easel has been a long one. As a military veteran, I spent years operating in high-pressure environments where precision was paramount. Today I channel that same discipline into my art but with a new focus on peace, color, and the quiet strength of the human spirit.
My studio in Omaha, Nebraska, is my sanctuary. It is where I explore the intersection of Pop Art and Minimalism. I am driven by a fascination with the clean and graphic quality of screen printing. I enjoy the technical challenge of using gouache to achieve that same level of flatness and precision by hand even though it is a traditionally fluid medium.
When I am not painting, you will likely find me with my wife and our rescued senior pug. People who do not share a home with a senior rescue often find it hard to comprehend the deep devotion a family has to their little companion.
Artistic Philosophy
My work is a celebration of the feminine spirit. I aim to portray women as strong, independent, and beautiful. Whether I am painting Frida Kahlo or a modern fashion portrait, I draw inspiration from traditional Mexican Día de los Muertos art and the bold lines of Pop Art.
I focus on creating compositions that do more with less. By using minimalist silhouettes, I remove the visual noise so you can immediately connect with the art. My goal is for the viewer to feel the presence of the subject instantly without having to overthink the meaning behind the painting.
Materials & Archival Standards
I believe that original art should be built to last. I create every piece using professional-grade Winsor & Newton gouache on 100% cotton paper imported from England.
You will notice that my work is never displayed behind glass. Instead, I mount the cotton paper onto an acid-free board and finish it with a specialized coating of Dorland’s Wax. This archival technique protects the painting while allowing you to experience the rich and matte texture of the paper without glare. It creates an intimate connection between the viewer and the art.
A Personal Note
If you look closely at the lower-left corner of my paintings, you will see a small black ribbon. This is a silent tribute to my parents. They never got the chance to see this chapter of my life as an artist, so painting that small mark is my way of keeping their memory present in everything I create.
Thank you for allowing me to share my work with you.
Kindest Regards,
Brett