Marketing and advertising are often dirty words in the world of fine art. To many artists, non-commercialization is paramount to staying true to their craft. But Atlanta artist Jeremy Brown isn’t afraid to capitalize on a creative idea, as long as it means he gets to continue working on projects that are important to him.
With a strong background in marketing, Brown has built an artistic brand for himself. His line of adults-only art kits called Love is Art (think sexy-time painting, you and your partner’s naked bods are the brushes) has gained international popularity and allowed the artist to support his other creative efforts. Brown’s most rewarding project and the one closest to his heart is DRIVE – an artistic collaboration with a close friend dealing with a debilitating disease. Though “educated by heartache and pain,” Brown’s optimistic spirit and happiness shine in his work through bright pops of neon color and uplifting text. His art clearly illustrates the passion, romance, and drama of his own life.
Brown took the time to talk with CommonCreativ about his many projects, and if you think you’ve had a busy week, read up on everything he has on the books in Atlanta this summer.
CommonCreativ ATL: What brought you to Atlanta?
Jeremy Brown: I was born in South Africa, but spent most of my childhood in Australia. My father was brought to Atlanta for work, and I’ve called it home ever since. I think if South Africa or Australia has influenced my work, it would be through their culture, values, beauty and struggles.
CC: What sparked your interest in art?
JB: I grew up surrounded by art — my mother and two sisters were artists working in different mediums. My art schooling was spending time with them and just trying new things. I went to school for marketing and advertising, which has helped me to get my artwork, brand and message out there. I started an art related brand/product/project called Love Is Art about five years ago. It eventually allowed me to invest time into my personal art without starving.
CC: Explain your project with your friend Steve Dezember II. Had you been involved with this kind of art-based fundraising before?
JB: Steve and I have known each other since high school. We started the DRIVE Project a year after he was diagnosed with ALS and confined to an electric wheelchair. Over the past three-and-a-half years I’ve been helping him create amazing abstract paintings by pouring paint on the wheels of his electric wheelchair while he uses the tires as his paintbrushes. The DRIVE project is by far the best project I have ever been a part of. Steve and his wife Hope have changed my life undoubtedly, inspiring me to live life to the fullest and to strive to make a positive impact on the lives of others. This is the first time I’ve been involved with an art-based fundraising project. I don’t take any monetary compensation from it. I donate my time, resources and the materials, but it has made me a rich man for sure. I hope to continue to do more projects like it.
CC: Passion is clearly a driving force in your personality and artistic style. Where do you think it all comes from?
JB: I’d have to say that it comes from my search for peace and happiness. I’ve come to find that simple kindness and compassion for others is where I find my strongest peace and happiness.
CC: What has the feedback been like from people who have experienced Love Is Art for themselves?
JB: The feedback has always been pretty amazing. I get emails daily from couples who have used the art, and some of the things that I hear make all the work well worth it. The feedback is anywhere from “we had so much fun,” to “it saved our marriage.” The project itself can be intimate, romantic, bonding and silly all at once.
CC: What do you have lined up in Atlanta this summer?
JB: I have a show opening on May 20 at Made Again in Inman Park, exhibiting pieces from my ‘recreate’ series, using materials found within or around my studio. These pieces will be up for 60 days. I recently launched a line of art kits for kids called Little Abstract, so I’ll be pushing that a good bit this summer, attending a lot of local art fairs and markets. Whiskey Park located at the W Atlanta – Midtown hotel has been commissioning local artists to create works for their redesigned space, and I’m lucky enough to be one of those artists. The opening night to view the pieces I’m creating for them will be June 10th.
Then, I have my second solo exhibit at Kai Lin Art Gallery opening July 22, titled ‘This I Know.’ This show is a follow up to my debut solo exhibit last summer at Kai Lin titled ‘Love Marks The Spot.’ The show will consist of 20 to 30 pieces. I’ll also be putting together another DRIVE exhibit in August at ABV Gallery.
You can see more of Jeremy Brown’s work on his site or stop by his Made Again ATL exhibition, on display now.
