Imaginarium
MINNEAPOLIS, November 11, 2012 –Renee and Early represent a burgeoning esthetic that is transitioning from books, media, and pop iconography into galleries. These artists remain true to the wonderment and jovial perspective drawn from childhood. They share bold use of color and line, trading texture and detail for contemporary design and eye-grabbing imagery.
KATE RENEE /// Kate Renee has exhibited across the US and in Japan. She has received press, numerous awards and has been published locally. Renee earned a BA in Fine Arts, Art History, and a minor in design from the University of Minnesota in 2010. Renee has interned at various galleries, culminating in a position at Altered Esthetics. The characters Renee paints are familiar and friendly, yet bold and sassy. Their signature ‘Kate Renee’ eyes look back at the viewer, engaging conversation with a touch of humor. http://katerenee.com
BRETT EARLY /// Brett Early has been commissioned for store fronts in Minneapolis, such as Heavenly Soles and Buffalo Exchange. He remains a regular exhibitor at local art crawls and cafes. Early received a BFA in Illustration from the College of Visual Arts in 2005. Much of his training in illustration was rigorously aimed toward commercial applications. Early came away from this experience with a highly-attuned understanding of color, line, purpose and concept, but also with a distinct urge to reclaim the joy of painting for the elusive reasons of the folk artist, outsider-artist, or child. Early’s commitment: “If you are not having fun when looking at my work, then I’m not doing my job”