05/22/2022
Introducing Dogwood First Friday June Artist, Jen Bradford!
A lifelong artist and craftsperson with a storied background in metalsmithing and fabrics, Bradford took to mixed media during the pandemic while searching for a new creative pursuit. "I find this way of working to be much more similar to the sculptural work of metalsmithing than to more painterly techniques. I still love working in fibers, as well, and have felt the allure of silver, gold and gemstones calling me back in that direction, as well." Though the work has a thematic feel, Bradford says, "I never really set out on an artistic journey with a particular destination in mind, rather, I spend time immersed within the processes that emerge naturally from the materials at hand."
From a family of makers, Bradford was raised near St. Louis and now lives in Boonville with the painter Eric Larimore. "From upholstery and furniture building to sewing (and sowing), I've had the benefit of being surrounded by multiple generations of family who are skilled in their craft and eager to teach the next generation. My own career as an artist began with a few classes on metalsmithing and years of workshops and practice. I fabricated and sold my art jewelry full-time on the art fair circuit for about 5 years, while also teaching in both metals and fibers at Craft Alliance, the St. Louis Artist’s Guild and St. Louis Community College. In 2017 I moved to central Missouri with the plans of moving my studio there, as well, but the universe had other plans and I stepped away from the life of a full-time working artist."
All of the pieces in Bradford's show have been made in the last year and draw from our collective pandemic experience. "The past years have been challenging for all of us in so many ways and, while I’m certain those challenges are represented in this work, I think it also represents a deep, if momentary, escape from the challenges of the day-to-day. This body of work, to me, represents a joyful escape to a place of deep resilience and healing."
Join us Friday, June 3, 6-9pm for this beautiful exhibit.
