Artist Statement
​My work focuses on the lines and colors of botanical forms because face-to-face with nature is where I feel most connected to God. I regularly use charcoal and acrylic paint, but also incorporate other media for texture and interest. Use of canvas, paper or panel ground depends on the project. During the season of global pandemic separation, the “Deconstructed” series was born as a way to encourage an understanding of unity during a collective state of isolation. Petals, leaves and internal parts of one bloom are separated and rearranged. These new arrangements speak to the possibilities of communities working creatively toward a goal, even in times of disconnection. My photographs provide reference for each painting’s charcoal foundation. I employ reiterated line to display the variable nature of movement, and selective erasure to allow areas of forgiveness on the surface. Charcoal is manipulated with brushes and full-range arm movements to breathe life back into the organic substance. After several passes of drawing, erasing, and smearing, an acrylic spray sealant maintains the drawing’s integrity and preserves the matte finish. Multiple layers of acrylic glazing honor the complexity of nature’s colors, and build translucence. Metallic elements represent the integrated flow of spiritual and intellectual energy with the power to move us forward. We are separate, and gifted differently, but created to work in harmony, keeping “the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace”. My palette rarely includes any shade of black, preferring shadows created with complementary colors. A final clear glaze on the painted surfaces provides a shiny contrast to the matte black charcoal. With relationships as a prime driver, I thrive in commission work. The collaborative process in art motivates me because I believe it builds community. Translating collective ideas into the visual language of a painting creates a common ground, and produces artwork that strengthens bonds. The art becomes a cairn for moments that make us who we are. 


​Artist Bio
Brenda Gribbin’s award-winning designs are inspired by botanical forms. Her expressive paintings provide visual translations that preserve story and celebrate life. Relationships are a prime driver, making her a diligent collaborator and commissioned artist. Her unique art workshops help participants encounter beauty on a personal level. Brenda graduated Summa Cum Laude with a B.A. in Art & Performance from The University of Texas at Dallas. She currently serves on the Flower Mound, TX, Cultural Arts Commission in Place 6, and has created multiple public art projects for her community. Professional associations include Art House Dallas, Christians in Visual Arts, Flower Mound Women in Business, Golden Key International Honor Society, Texas Artists Coalition, and Visual Arts Society of Texas. She is a native Texan based in Dallas/Fort Worth.