David Brooks
Dancing into the Anthropocene
In gallery now through July 5th, 2025.
Artist Statement:
This series of works began in the surreal days and weeks following the beginning of the COVID-19 lockdown. Retreating to my basement studio, I sought to find a distraction from the pandemic and a new focus for my art making. Photography, art history and a deep concern for the state of our natural environment have all shaped the work that I have been creating since early 2020. The majority of the work that you will see on display has been created since my retirement from teaching in 2022.
The Anthropocene is a term that refers to a geological period defined by human influence on earth (i.e. the climate, biodiversity and geology). The title of this exhibition, Dancing into the Anthropocene, reflects my belief that we must be fearless and optimistic to deal with the environmental challenges that we are to face in the coming decades.
I want to take this opportunity to thank my family and friends who have always been supportive of my artistic endeavors. Your interest in my work and your kind words have always been an encouragement. I want to specifically thank Karen Jenner (Nova Scotia Beach Garbage) and Will Parson (Chesapeake Bay Program) for permission to use their photographs of recovered beach garbage (plastics) and micro-plastics. Their images were vital as source material for the development of many of the artworks in this exhibition.
- David Brooks
For more insight into David’s work, read The Long Shadow of a Short Time, by Brent Mazerolle.
Knock Knock! by Natt Cann
Natt Cann (he/him) is a Canadian visual artist based in Moncton, New Brunswick. His work explores themes of home and housing, climate and cultural change, and economic and systemic disparity. "Knock Knock! or I Will Never Own a Home" serves as both an appreciation of what currently exists and a warning of what may soon be lost.
The series, featuring over 200 images of Atlantic Canadian doors, contrasts the charm of historic architecture with the rise of faceless modern developments.
Mono-printed through photochemical transfer, these images convey a sense of vanishing into their replacements. Supported by ArtsNB and the Canada Council for the Arts, Natt employs prints, installations, and community engagement to spark meaningful conversations and has been showcased across Canada. Bright & Brine is thrilled to present a selection from this series.
