Bryan Collier Art Work

Bryan Collier grew up in Pocomoke, Maryland, on the lower Eastern Shore of the state, the youngest of six children. His interest in art started early. "At home and at school, I was encouraged to read. I remember the first books with pictures that I read by myself were The Snow Day by Ezra Jack Keats and Harold and the Purple Crayon by Crockett Johnson. I liked the stories, but I really liked the pictures." As a teenager Bryan began to paint the world around him - the bay, ducks, water, and marshland. His interest in art was always encouraged both at home and at school. Bryan began to develop a unique style of painting that incorporated both watercolors and collage.

In 1985 Bryan won first place in a Congressional Competition, and his art was displayed in the Capitol Building in Washington D.C. Later that year he was awarded a scholarship to Pratt Institute in New York City through their national talent competition. IN 1989 Bryan graduated with honors from Pratt Institute with a bachelor of fine arts degree

Today Bryan spends his time working on his book illustrations, creating his own studio pieces, and going into classrooms to talk with teachers, librarians, and students about books and art. "I get so much from those school visits. With the books I've been doing, I have this amazing opportunity to bring my art and the process of making artwork and books into the classroom. I ask the students to talk to me and talk to each other about how they feel and what their own experiences are. Basically I ask them to tell their own story. Then I ask them to tell their own story through art. The experience of making art is all about making decisions. Once the kids really get that, you see them making the connection. They go from saying, 'That's not about me' to 'Hey. Look at me. This is who I am.'"

Bryan Collier art work - Open Editions - click each image for a closer view

36" x 24"


Roots

$30

 

36" x 24"


Bass In Your Face

$30

36" x 24"


Be Patient Let It Grow

$30