Brent Birnbaum’s work begins by exploring the world in search of found objects that have not been used in an artistic context and that contain the potential to be manipulated into something new and powerful. He strives to surprise and captivate the viewer by expanding the dialogue about contemporary art. The familiarity of his materials makes his works accessible to a wide audience, as does the humor they contain. Birnbaum embarks on projects that challenge him mentally and physically by collecting a difficult quantity or absurd material. Inspired by both art history and ready-made materials, he is on a quest to find and create the invisible angles of life.
His work has been shown at Galerie PJ, Metz France; Denny Dimin Gallery, NYC, NY; Abrons Art Center, NYC, NY; Casino Luxemburg - Forum d'Art Contemporain, Luxembourg; The Invisible Dog, Brooklyn, NY; LAB Gallery, NYC, NY.
Artist Statement
My art practice is an insatiable pursuit of discovery and re-invention for mental stimulation, amusement, and the desire to inspire, entertain, and provoke others. My work begins by scanning the world for found objects that have not been used in an art context and contain the potential to be manipulated to say something new and powerful. The familiarity of my medium creates accessibility to a broad audience, as does the humor embedded into the work. I strive to surprise and captivate the viewer while expanding upon the contemporary art dialogue. Art history is a continuous source of inspiration. Equally motivating is the challenge of collecting a complex quantity or absurd material. The extensive research I embark on into particular objects helps reveal the best way to use what I’m gathering. I am on a lifelong quest to create new perspectives on overlooked and bygone materials and build upon the readymade lineage with gusto.