Mark Bravante – Anniversary Art Exhibition

• Artist Portfolio Magazine
• Mark Bravante – Woodbridge, VA

I find the relationship between materials and subject to be very important. The unity between these two ingredients tell a very interesting story. My art examines the connection between different mediums to create something new. Some of my work produce a narrative while some disrupt the general expectation of what is considered good art. Either way, I want the viewer to appreciate the details of its creation and experience the artwork for its unique marksmanship. My inspiration comes from the following artists- Robert Rauschenberg, Joseph Cornell, Kurt Schwitters, and Louise Nevelson. It is my great honor to follow their footsteps and create works indicative of change.

I take everyday objects from my surroundings and assemble them into something that is forward thinking and completely original. The goal is for my viewers to get a sense of freedom and playfulness when looking at my work. Every detail is crucial in the development of my art. Examples include vintage postcards, record covers, sales receipts, and images of plant anatomy. These artifacts are redefined and re-examined giving them a new meaning. It is evident that the beauty of my artwork comes from the collection of these found objects. Searching for these random treasures give me the drive to create and explore artistic possibilities within that particular medium.

My artwork is resourceful and completely recycled. Every piece used was an extension of something that had been lost, ignored or forgotten. I enjoy the process of manipulating these relics because it gives me a sense of direction of where we were in the past and the adaptation it took for us to be in our present state. My artwork is the product of these absorbed facts channeled through my creative vision. It is my social commentary about what’s going on in our world.