ABOUT BRANDON ATKINSON
Embracing a lifelong passion that ignited at the tender age of eight, Brandon Atkinson stands as an Edmonton-based Métis artist with an innate creative spirit. Encouraged by the wisdom of his grandparents, Brandon delved into his artistic talents, ultimately crafting a distinct signature style characterized by vibrant ink images resonating with intricate details.
Brandon's artistry transcends mere visual representations; it's a profound exploration of history, heritage, and the rich tapestry of the Nehiyawak as the Four-direction people. Within each depiction of bears, eagles, wolves, buffalo, and the fusion of humans and spirits lies a narrative waiting to unfold. Brandon's artworks are not just unique images but windows to vivid histories, revealing layers of personal and spiritual significance upon closer examination.
His artistic journey has been heralded in prestigious exhibitions, from the esteemed 'Art in the Heart' showcase at Edmonton City Hall to the insightful platform of the Walrus Talks - Aboriginal City Conference and the celebrated Works Art and Design Festival. Brandon's work has graced billboards for the #yegcanvas project and captivated audiences at the Rubaboo Indigenous Art Festival. Notably, his pieces find homes in private and prestigious public collections, including the Winnipeg Arts Council and MacEwan University.
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Rooted in Edmonton and tracing ancestral ties to Wales and western Canada (Manitoba), Brandon's artistic drive is deeply ingrained in his upbringing. His creative process is guided by intuition, reflecting an artist compelled to draw what he 'sees' and feels should be brought to life. As he humbly states, "No one has ever taught me how to draw, and my granny always told me to just do what I do."
Central to Brandon's drawings are animals and their living environments, rendered through an instinctual connection and his unique 'inner eye'. His creations resonate with echoes of the Woodland school of art, evident in the emphasis on line and the nuanced use of X-ray decoration, revealing inner structures and the intricate narratives of people and animals.
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Join Brandon Atkinson on his artistic odyssey, where each stroke of his pen tells a story, inviting you to explore the depths of heritage, spirituality, and the untold tales woven into his captivating artistry.