Brian Reinker is a painter who delves into the profound impact of colour on our perceptions. In Brian's artistic journey, precision is not just a method; it's a language, and each cut of paper is a carefully chosen word. His craft is collage, an exploration of vibrant hues and geometric forms, but it's more than arranging shapes and colors; it's a dialogue between architecture, emotion, and personal narrative. Shaped by the precision of his architectural background, Brian's artwork seamlessly fuses meticulous geometric abstraction with personal narratives. Going beyond traditional canvas boundaries, Brian's collages are deliberate compositions celebrating heritage and craftsmanship, inspired by the diverse landscapes encountered through his travels. The interplay of colors, memories, and celebrations guides the emotions within each piece. From Brian's American roots to the vibrant energy of London and the inspiration drawn from his journeys, his work invites viewers to explore the intersection of precision and emotion, where paint and collage weave a distinctive visual language.
1) Which art movement do you consider most influential on your practice?
I get inspiration from the Abstract and Minimalist art movements.
2) Where do you go and when to make your best art?
I have a studio at Make Space Studios, a short bike ride from my apartment. I work from there 5 or 6 days a week. Make Space is filled with an array of very creative artists and friends who inspire and motivate me.
3) How do you describe your 'creative process'?
I usually work in a series where I take an idea and investigate the possibilities of that idea in different ways. This could be based on a landscape, the combination of textures and colours, or even a written novel. I start by sketching out the ideas and I'm always excited to start laying down the work.
4) Which artist, living or deceased, is the greatest inspiration to you?
It is quite a varied list: Sol LeWitt, Ellsworth Kelly, Frank Stella & Sean Scully.
5) If you weren't an artist, what would you do?
I would be involved and working in design and architecture.
6) What do you listen to for inspiration?
Almost every day I listen to Hed Kandi, a podcast that plays happy house music that lilvens up my studio. I also listen to various news and current events broadcasts to keep up-to-date with what’s happening in the world.
7) If you could own one artwork, and money was no object, which piece would you acquire?
I would need to have a large garden as I would love to own a corten steel Richard Serra sculpture.
8) If your dream museum or collection owner came calling, which would it be?
A dream collector is not necessary. When someone buys a work from me and wants to put it in their home, that is really the most satisfying type of sale. Better yet when they approach me for a second artwork or commission: that really makes be happy!
9) What is your key piece of advice for artists embarking on a fine art or creative degree today?
My key piece of advice to a student would be to enjoy yourself and let go. Those years of artistic freedom studying for a degree allows for explorations free from commercial constraints - don't let that go to waste.
10) What is your favourite book of all time (fiction or non fiction)?
Ever since I was a child, I have been fascinated by maps, topography and statistics about our world. An Atlas is my choice.
11) If you could hang or place your artwork in one non-traditional art setting, where would that be?
I often think that my work could be enlarged and expanded to be a large multi storey mural on the outside of a building, adding colour and interest to a neighbourhood.
12) What was the biggest lesson your university course or time studying taught you?
Far too long ago…
13) And finally, if we were to fast forward 10 years, where would we find you?
Hopefully I will still be doing what motivates me and that is being a creative.
Learn more about Brian and discover his collection of artworks.
