Artist Statement: Tracy Brown

@beigeplum BeigePlum@gmail.com

My work delves into the intricate tapestry of human experience, where innocence, storytelling, and abstracted forms converge. Each piece begins with a watercolor illustration, often featuring young girls who symbolize my inner voice. These figures, delicate yet resilient, navigate a world imbued with nostalgia and wonder.

Working intuitively with hand-dyed papers, fabrics I’ve collected over the years, and acrylic paint, I construct collages that are as much about the process as they are about the final image. The layers of texture and color speak to the complexities of memory and identity, capturing moments of vulnerability and freedom.

For me, art is a form of self-discovery. My collages are intimate treasures, each telling a unique story that invites viewers to pause, reflect, and connect with their own inner narratives. The themes of childhood wonder, personal growth, and the interplay between past and present are ever-present in my work, reflecting my journey through grief and pain towards a new world of understanding and expression.

My current body of work, supported by a grant from the Ohio Arts Council, represents a pivotal moment in my artistic journey. It is a celebration of my emergence, a testament to the power of creativity to heal and transform. Through my art, I hope to whisper to the child within us all, encouraging a sense of wonder and the courage to dream.