Artist Statement and bio

The natural world has always fascinated me; animals, plants, landscapes and the wild world full of vibrant and beautiful colors.  Ever since I was little I have been mesmerized by this idea of what is natural; where we came from, where we go, what happens to all of this matter and physical material. My mind always wandered to exploring that connection, our animalistic primal sense.  Much of the human condition can be related to that of the wild animal: our desire for food, water, space for living, and socialization.  In my work, I attempt to emulate the simplicity and humble nature of being, and this sense of connection.  Animals, unlike humans, seem to be content in just being; searching for food, lounging with relatives, this simple and beautiful pursuit of livelihood. It seems that in our culture today, time is of the essence and we have no time to sit, be, and feel curious about the world. My work is an exploration to recreate these landscapes, scenes, true human nature, and this primal sense of life and to find that simplicity and peacefulness of breath, to be curious and fascinated, and to reconnect. 

Biography

Brandon Goodwin is an undergraduate Art student at St. Edward’s University.  He grew up in Texas for most of his life, but also lived in Massachusetts for a few years.  His Catholic upbringing, affinity towards nature and animals, and private education has shaped his life greatly.  While not a religious person, the ideals and exposure to teachings certainly have had an effect in his development.  Music has played a large role in Brandon’s work too, for the feelings that music can evoke are the same reactions he drives for in his pieces.  Brandon originally studied pre-med, but changed to art.  His scientific background also has great significance in his creativity and fixations towards plants and nature. He conducted research on native species of Texas and subsequently worked for the Gallatin National Forest in Montana.  Wilderness and the return to instinctual and primitive is a motif of Brandon’s work.  Brandon currently lives in Austin, TX with his lovely dog and anchor, Calypso.