Artist Biography
Denise Brook is a first-generation Latvian American artist, born in Burbank, California. She determined at a young age to pursue a career as a studio artist, though she later worked as a creative director for many years. Three years ago, she decided to focus fully on her art and committed herself to her practice. Her artistic work is now the central focus of her professional life.
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Artist Statement
In my work, I aim to challenge the viewer to piece together what’s happening. I often explore themes like gender, class, identity, politics, and the environment—I paint when I can no longer ignore the issue.
I bend the real world with color, everyday objects, and human figures. There is often a concept or message embedded in my pieces, some more hidden than others, with many addressing current global issues. Rather than explicitly stating my concept, I prefer to let the viewer create their own narrative from the story unfolding before them. If asked, I am happy to share my interpretation.
My work is figurative, incorporating real-world elements in a semi-dismantled way.
I work in acrylic on canvas; after laying down the main colors, I incorporate multiple layers of glazing to achieve the softness and depth that I am after.
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