Kristin Brin - Artist Statement

“Be yourself.” I tell myself this every time I step into my studio, “You are allowed to create anything, anything at all." Yet the business of letting it out for the world to see is a challenge to me, which is surprising to people who know me, as I am very outgoing.

My practice of making art is centered within my soul. I have always painted and as the years flow by, each artwork suggests to me that I may be changing without my own guidance. If you asked me fifteen years ago what the meaning was, I would have been dismissive about the question. Perhaps expressing that it’s about love for painting and other surface comments of joy and happiness. That is not true any longer and I am finally comfortable sharing my story with you. As soft and gentle as many of my paintings are, there was a pathway to this moment which was twisted and tied. I am a strong person without a straightforward past. Come in... I do believe you will sense where I have been and where we are going. 

 After years of holding back my feminine tendencies towards color, grace and beauty, I finally broke free. I stepped back from painting to please others and discovered my real passion, painting for the love of creating lovely, unencumbered art. When creating beautiful paintings, I am drawing inspiration from certain objects that are so unexpected. My concepts and studies come primarily from my imagination and desire to see without the limitations of literalism. I feel lucky to see paintings wherever I am, discovering art in an object or a view. I am constantly observing colors, lines and shapes around me. I see my paintings as atmosphere, mood, an ambient haze which relaxes the mind, heart and soul. 

I am moving away from literal forms in my recent work. I am still interested in translucency and layering, yet without the confinement of outlined shapes. Creative influences throughout my life have been my Mother Jacqueline, Wassily Kandinsky, Edward Degas, Georgia O'Keefe and Malcom Furlow. As a mature woman the likes of Mary Weatherford and Helen Frankenthaler, my friend contemporary Chicago artist Gary Weidner and longtime friend, Interior Designer Beth Izenman.

My art fits into the contemporary abstract expressionist category. I am working and showing alongside some amazing artists who are also exploring the boundlessness of color and perception. It is truly an interesting time be an artist. As A.I. gains presence in all of our lives, I feel curious and some concern about this unknow medium.

Again, no rules, only players. With this expansion, people from everywhere around the world are becoming popular artists in every possible way. I am a part of that which is exactly where I am honored and humbled to be. My solo journey took much courage, and I like to say two things when I am asked “How did you make it in this field?”. They are “ Imagine everything” and “When you put yourself in charge, take action”.