Kellie Brunner
Eyes Open
Colored pencil and paint markers on paper
Our sight allows us to acknowledge the Earth as fantastical, unique, and alive — just as we are. The history and curiously unique qualities of nature offer a space for Brunner to feel supported and grounded as a queer person. A space within the forest can serve as a reminder of nature’s unconditional acceptance, reflected by the personification of flora and fauna in this piece.
Artist Statement
“Eyes open” is a piece I worked on late senior year of high school. It took a few weeks overall, but it easily became one of my favorite pieces of mine. What I take away from this piece is our inherited connection to nature and the unknown. A twist on that idea with a fantasy approach is how I came up with the name of “eyes open”, not only are there eyes of the magenta creatures open but those components of the forest that surrounds them. I think we all ought to experience nature by acknowledging that it’s alive. It has a history and a whole life before you encountered it. To acknowledge that and to be kind to nature moving forward is something I hope to inspire. As a queer artist I’ve struggled with identity and connecting with nature is something I can always count on to feel grounded and accepted.