Made by Brian Reed.
b.1972
Brian Reed’s art practice is guided by his inquisitive nature. The contemplative quality of his artwork extends a feeling of intimacy to the viewer, as we observe the result of his exploration of the people who inspire him and the animals that intrigue him.
“It makes me happy because I like working with my hands. I like the way I use them. I like being with people while making art. I have so many friends from here.”
Reed experiments fearlessly with materials and continually welcomes new challenges. This is most evident in his three-dimensional works constructed with a variety of mediums. The resulting forms are at once brutal and elegant. His affinity for acquiring new skills extends to teaching. Reed is a member of the agency’s educator track, and teaches art skills in a variety of settings.
“I enjoy learning because I want to grow. I like being with the kids. They’re so cute! I like working with them and seeing them grow.”"
Dimensions: Dolphin 2 x 4 x 2", Folded 4 x 4 x 1.5"
Materials: Glazed ceramic
Arts of Life
(West Fulton Market)
Arts of Life is a non-profit founded in 2000 with a shared vision: to create a working, person-centric, artistic community while providing a work environment of equality in Chicago. For artists at Arts of Life, a career in the visual arts is an opportunity for meaningful employment. Each artist has their own studio space and works independently from individualized project plans or receives 1:1 visual arts facilitation to increase their artistic skill set. Artists earn a monthly stipend for participation in the program with eligibility to receive bonuses based on personal annual art sales. They represent over 60 artists with varying levels of physical and intellectual disabilities.