Artist: Marcia Brito
Title “Photographic Abstraction No.3”

About the Artist:

"Born in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, I moved to the USA at 18 with a Scholarship Award from the International Institute of Education (IIE) of New York, through juried competition for high academic performance. I received a Bachelor of Arts Degree at Roosevelt University, Chicago, IL. Now an American citizen and Visual Artist based in Miami, I’m certified by the Florida Department of Education to teach Art and have earned a Master of Fine Art degree (MFA) in Visual Arts from Jacksonville University, FL. My career encompasses an array of national and international exhibits, photographic assignments, publications and awards (details on my online resume https://www.britoart.com/resume ). I work in various media and concepts depending on the demands of each project with which I become involved. My work incorporates experimental and innovative integration of materials, applying interdisciplinary approaches to art-making informed by contemporary theory, criticism and broader culture. My latest portfolio titled “Photographic Abstractions” is a cross-media experiment between photography and painting. I use the camera as a tool to create non-representational paintings, reminiscent of the abstract expressionist period. I maneuver my camera as a brush in space capturing light, color and movement, similar to the gestural way Abstract Expressionists used their paint brushes. This work aims to provide an escape from the burdens of contemporary society, including COVID-19, through the total abstraction of reality, and aspire to connect the audience with emotions of joy. Joy is necessary to balance out the negativity, violence, and injustice in the world. Seeking joy is an act of resistance in our challenging times. Social/political/cultural challenges are the motivation to create outlets to help ease stress by offering images that allow the mind to relax and get lost in the motion, forms and colors; like an antidote to transform the discontent of the mind into happiness. This work frees viewers from limits of reality, providing opportunities for escape and self-reflection through non-objective imagery. It’s produced in-camera without photo manipulation software. Non-objective imagery allows for universal appeal in this era of divisive and reactive politics. As universally agreeable as the beauty of reflected light, these images provide joy by the satisfaction of color, light and composition.”

How has covid19 affected you?

"COVID-19 has severely impacted my finances. Two of my ongoing art exhibits, at Pridelines Art Gallery in Miami and at the Museum of Science & History (MOSH) in Jacksonville, have been closed due to COVID-19. My income comes from sales of my artworks at exhibits. Since both exhibits remain closed, I don’t know when I might see any sales income. Additionally, all the extra expenses to prepare and stay safe during this pandemic have greatly overwhelmed me financially.” - Marcia