Combining art photography with computer technology, Edmonds artist Patricia Brier opens the door to an entirely new way of seeing — photo montage. From now until Jan. 18, Brier’s works are on view at Kindred Circle Art Gallery in downtown Edmonds.
Combining multiple photos into new arrangements, selected elements are carefully placed to convey a specific message. Initially an art photographer, Brier’s collection of stock photos reaches into the hundreds. Borrowing elements from these, she then utilizes the particular specialties of several computer programs to add or remove special effects, and finally combine them together into an entirely new piece of art. The final touch comes in a poetic phrase coined by Brier herself, to capture her inspiration and let the viewer in on it.
After obtaining a degree in Graphic Design and Illustration at Burnley School of Professional Art (now Art Institute of Seattle), she used her skills in composition, placement, shapes, arrangement on the page to great success in drawing, including wildlife commissions for the zoo. Private showings led to good sales. After putting her pens away in 1989, her mother gave Brier an entire 35mm kit, and she hasn’t looked back since.
Five years ago, Brier acquired a new computer and began playing with graphics programs, first merging two photos, then four or five. Her first attempts were greeting cards. Adding quotes of her own or others led to a large increase in sales. Encouragement from others led to using all her own original quotes. People loved the cards so much they began asking for larger framed pieces.
The current show brings new aspects to her ever-expanding imagination. Dimensional elements utilizing different kinds of papers to create visual depth, and other components like glossy finishes, matte finishes and vellum all in one.
Brier’s work is on display at Kindred Circle Art Gallery, located at 409 Main Street in downtown Edmonds. Hours and directions are available at www.KindredCircle.com, or call 425-776-3778.
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