SEDIMENTARY: new work by Bri McGrew

SEDIMENTARY: New work by BRI MCGREW of The Universe Conspires

opening: February 3rd, 5-9pm
exhibit on display through February 24th

About the Exhibit:

“Sedimentary is an exploration of traditional materials progressing from my work as a jeweler.  With sustainability as a core value of my studio practice, I source dead stock vintage chain, and rocks directly from miners and old collections, always attempting to make use of every scrap.  Much of this work was built utilizing the remnants and inventory deemed unsuitable for use in jewelry. 

My process is often intuitive, beginning with a loose composition in mind. I find that most projects require flexibility, allowing for each material, color and shape to dictate the form taken as they meet.  The Latin, “genius loci,” translates to, “the pervading spirit of a place.”  This is perceived as the distinct way elements combine in any particular natural environment.  The confluence of disparate parts generates an unmistakable essence.  I keep that notion with me as I move objects about my table, making my own inner landscapes tangible. “

About the Artist:

Bri McGrew (she/they) was born in Colorado Springs, CO in 1988.

While studying printmaking and sculpture at Pacific Northwest College of Art in Portland, OR from 2007-2008, she found her focus shifting from fine art to contemporary craft. Shortly after leaving college, she began metalsmithing and founded her jewelry line, The Universe Conspires in 2010. 

As an multidisciplinary artist, her work endeavors to translate felt experience and sense of place to the material object—shape, color, texture and structure evoking the ineffable qualities of the emotional and corporeal landscapes. 

This is her second solo-exhibition of mixed-media sculpture— the first was an ephemeral, site-specific installation at UCCS’ Heller Center in June of 2018. 

 

In 2021, McGrew moved to Pueblo, CO where she works closely with the community of Colorado Center for Metal Arts.