Brett C Sandström standing with last canvas created as a teen, a work created in 1993.
Every expression and perception is as diverse as every person. The visual language of art ties every person to the knowable, to the plausible, and to the unfathomable. In order to let go of preconceived notions and to allow the art to flow freely from within, Brett Sandström has been working in the world of abstracts for over thirty years. Works that seek balance and harmony - works that emphasizes mindfulness, intentionality, simplicity, and being present in the moment.
Whether brushed onto paper or canvas, Brett Sandström seeks understanding through the controlling lines into asymmetrical works where negative space and minimalism creates a sense of calm tranquility, inviting viewers to engage with the art on a deeper, more contemplative level.
Reviving Lost Languages
5th and Talcott: home and studio to artist, Brett C Sandström.
5th and Talcott was created to explore the lost language of art and pass the artistic passion and techniques to a new generation of creatives at the Sedro-Woolley Academy of Art.
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Every expression and perception is as diverse as every person is on Earth. The language of art ties every person to the knowable, to the plausible, and to the unfathomable. Though artistic expression is as old as human history, my artistic language was developed through a creative explosion during my teen years. Starting in 1991, I was afforded the luxury to produce hundreds of intricate conceptual abstracts – mostly nib and brushed ink on paper, some noise soundscapes, and a few painted canvases.
As adulthood hit and life steamrolled on, my painterly production waned to the point of non-existence and was replaced with the love of photography. From the darkroom days to Polaroid and digital, I’ve produced 1,000s of photographic works, and I’m proud to say I’ve had several images published.
All-the-while, art was with me – doing little projects here and there, but it wasn’t until exploring art with my own children, Ogden (11) and Arlis (14), that I picked up a brush again to re-learn the artistic language I once held so dear.
Over the course of the past few years, I have steadily built up a new portfolio, working in brushed inks, acrylic painted canvases, abstract collage, various printmaking forms, and photography. Thirty years on, I use my earliest abstractions as my spark, guide, and inspiration.
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To bring more creativity into the world, in October 2022 I built 5th and Talcott as a personal art studio and gallery, and home for the Sedro-Woolley Academy of Art, to offer private and group art lessons, and tutelage for artist of all ages.
I look forward to your visitation and thank you kindly for this conversation.
Brett C. Sandström – Autumn 2022
Publications, Awards, Exhibitions,
Education, Community, and Memberships
Abandoned Washington State (Arcadia Publishing Co.) - Fall 2023
Photography
Sedro-Woolley City Scene Magazine
STEM Like ME! Seventh Graders See Opening Doors - Jan. 2020
Written Article and Photo-essay
Tough Tusko Tussles A Town - Aug. 2017
Poem and Artwork
Women in Business - May 2017
Written Article and Photo-essay
Grow Magazine - May 2012
Photography
Courier-Times
The Cascade Two Cylinder Club - July 2010
Front page photograph
Students Show Pride Outside School Walls - June 2010
Photo-essay
Boston Review - Nov. 2009
Photography
Weird Washington (Sterling Publishing Co.) - Jan. 2008
Photography
Self Published Works
100 Polaroids - 2023
Collection of 100 Polaroid images taken with the iconic Polaroid Land Camera.
Foomalauge - Starting 2020
Autobiographical comic-book about being a stay-at-home Dad. (Three Issues)
Pick-a Pick-a Twang Twang - I'm Gonna Sing You A Country Song - Nov. 2013
Written and illustrated children's book and read along record set.
Art Exhibitions and Awards
NW Art Beat Studio Tour - July 2023
Self-guided tour of Skagit Valley Art Studios
Skagit Artist Show - April 2023
Eagle Haven Winery - Sedro-Woolley, WA
NW Art Bash - April 2023
Art Fair in LaConner, Washington
Skagit Valley College - Annual Juried Student Art Show - 2018
Honorable Mention - SVC Article
Valley Medical Center - 1995
Multi-media - Student Show - Grand Prize
Kentridge High School - 1994
Certificate of Excellence - Art
Canterbury (Art) Faire - 1993
Ink on Paper - Accepted into the juried adult exhibition as a minor.
Canterbury (Art) Faire - 1992
Ink on Paper - Juried fine art exhibition - Student Show - 2 Cash Prizes
Education
Advance Placement Art - Kentridge High School
Springbrook Academy of Fine Art
Several years tutelage with renowned Northwest Artist, Karin Evenson / Kal Leavy
Pacific Northwest College of Art - Intended
Biggest regret in life not attending PNCA
Various Art Courses
Bellevue College - Darkroom Photography (B&W and Color), Art and Design
Skagit Community - Art and Design
Khan Academy - Pixar in a Box
Community Arts Organizations
Sedro-Woolley Youth Orchestra - Board President (2018-2020)
Arts Council of Sedro-Woolley - Board Secretary (2018-2020)
City of Sedro-Woolley Arts Commission - Board-member (2023 - Present)
Memberships
3. CoCA