Dreamscape
ARTIST
Bria Fernandes is an emerging artist that specializes in figurative painting. She uses silences and omissions in her work to open a space for discourse. Silence, omissions, and exclusion are tools that can characterize oppression or vulnerability and be depicted in her imagery. Bria's figures are often painted in a pause of self-reflection, somber with no expression. They may look like they are waiting in a non-place enforced to sit or stand, sometimes engaged in a manic movement that seems staged or in odd positions. She paints what she believes is the voice of silence, what it feels like to be silenced or invisible as a Black person. Bria Fernandes was born in Ottawa, Ontario. She grew up and is living in Winnipeg, Manitoba. She is currently an undergraduate student at Alberta University of the Arts to obtain her BFA. She was also enrolled at the University of Manitoba’s School of Fine Art in Winnipeg.
LOCATION
555 Ellice Ave
Winnipeg, MB
Tunnel at McMicken and Ellice
ABOUT / ARTIST STATEMENT
Dreams are our exaggerated reality. Real-life is hard, but dreamscape is the ‘in-betweenness, a place where consciousness and subconsciousness co-exists and where we succumb to or conquer our inhibitions, basically decide our truths. Dreams reflect how we feel. When a dream feels real, it can draw the dreamer closer to their true image – knowing what matters and finding courage from within. The girl is in a strange unfamiliar world. The unfamiliarity of this world is life itself. To be fearful and give in, or to be courageous? Her courage is a self-personification– the wolf represents inner strength, new power, and the freedom to transcend insecurities. What matters most is the dream. It is an inspiration of sorts where one can grow, learn about themselves, and build confidence.
MURAL ASSISTANCE
Laura Lewis, Brianna Wentz, Mike Valcourt, Pat Lazo, Helga Jakobson, Chloe Chafe, Andrew Eastman
PARTNERS & SUPPORT
West End BIZ, Synonym Art Consultation, United Rentals, Janzens Paint & Decorating, Benjamin Moore