For the 2018 Conversations at OZ event, we engaged two distinctly different artists and asked them what they might create together. The result inspired, not only the design for the event, but also the artists themselves to stretch beyond the boundaries of their regular practice in search of something new.
Brandon Donahue is a visual artist whose studio practice is dominated by airbrushing, spray painting, and scavenging & reassembling abandoned things.
Brian Somerville is a visual artist whose focus is centered on clay sculpting “beasts” of one kind or another and adorning them with hand carved imagery. Both artists’ works explore social, political and/or personal themes, but prior to now – the similarities ended there.
In consideration of an event that celebrates diverse perspectives, and the outlandish idea of working together, Brandon and Brian worked in tandem to create individual artworks that may be seen and used around the table. Crafted from the perspective of urban structures, each piece feels like it could be found in the city, painted with unique graffiti or an original mural. Some pieces represent one structure, whereas others fit together in a collection – like one artwork separated into many parts.
Dinner plates, goblets, serving bowls, linens, wine chillers, and even a teapot make their way onto each table; resembling a water tower or a train car, a wheel with rivets or visible bolts and each emblazoned with color and a “tag” created especially by B2 for this event.
Works will be displayed and used at Conversations at OZ, but can be pre-purchased through this site. The final set of works – chargers – will be completed live at the event, on a rotating wheel-sculpture created by Brandon and Brian to embody their collaborative process.
Conversations at OZ exists to encourage dialogue around varying perspectives on a multitude of topics. OZ Arts is dedicated to creating opportunities for audiences to engage with a myriad of art forms, often presented in an environment or style that – you guessed it – sparks conversation.
Support OZ Arts. Foster conversation. Move the needle further.
