Artist Combines Animals and Spiritual Exploration in Gallery G Exhibition
Mariella Angeles
An Artist Reception showcasing Briana Floor was held at Gallery G in the Upper level of the JYSC on Saturday, Dec. 1.
The artist Briana Floor, who often goes by Bri, is from North Manchester, IN. She originally majored in writing at Ball State University but then realized that art is what was meant for her. She then went to attend Naropa University in Boulder, CO. She said that she has spent her whole life drawing.
In the showcase, there were works of art that Floor drew out, painted and finished way back in 2007. The program had “Still Wild” sprawled on the front cover, which eludes and represents what Floor calls the “combination of the persistence of chaotic institution and the call of meditative contemplation.” A group of five art pieces named The Divinimals was rendered in neutral brown tones. Each canvas had an individual animal—an owl, named Lady Ookpik; a swan, named Mate; a hare, named Sylvia; a horse, named Gypsy; and a tortoise named Tortuga.
This group of painting was created with little planning and control. Only a few tools were used to show imperfection and the uneven lines. This was to represent that, as Floor put it, “we are all flawed,” and that we are “utterly glorious and radiant” despite being imperfect. Each animal also each represents its respective totem spirit. It is to connect artist, medium and spirit.
On the opposite wall of Gallery G bright paintings of Mandalas in various sizes were displayed. They showed geometric patterns that were pleasing to the eye. There were intricate details and line work involved in these paintings. Mandalas are spiritual and ritual symbols that are representative of the universe.
The artist reception was buzzing with chatter with the visitors all intently surveying the art. Bri Floor was also out and about throughout Gallery G mingling with the guests.
The display of “Still Wild” will be up in Gallery G until Feb. 15, 2019. Gallery hours are M-F 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday 12-3p.m. Admission is free!