New exhibit coming on March 8 in Conn Gallery

Matt Brown and Sophie Kissen

March 8 – June | Conn Gallery

 

Matt Brown, Artist

Born in Boston, Matt Brown headed west 50-years ago to attend the Minneapolis College of Art and Design. Matt has been making art ever since. While attending MCAD, Matt was focused on large-scale sculpture working in a variety of materials. Over time he explored adding paint and color into the sculpture, blurring the line between the two mediums—painting and sculpture—to bring about a transition into painting.

By using a variety of materials in different mediums, a continuing thread weaves through his art from his sculpture to painting and later to his installation work. Often paint is a choice of material from among many to achieve an end. Themes in his new work called “Home” concern housing security, migration and nature.

Matt has had many exhibitions throughout his career, including being one of the youngest artists to have a solo exhibition at the Walker Art Center in Minneapolis. He has been a visiting artist/lecturer residency at University of California Santa Barbara. His work is widely collected by corporations and individuals. Matt lives and works in St Paul with his wife Lia.

 

Sophie Kissin, Jewelry Artist

Blending the ancient and the experimental, Sophie Kissin crafts jewelry that is personal and avant-garde. Rooted in traditional fabrication and sand-casting techniques, her pieces explore form, texture, and innovation. Sophie began metalsmithing at Carleton College, where she studied Art History and Russian. She began her jewelry practice in 2016, specializing in wearable modern jewelry and custom heirloom redesign.
Inspired by nature, art history, personal narratives, and the stories of those who wear her work, she invites you to make each piece your own vehicle for storytelling and self-expression.