An inside Look at the Art & Process of Artist Brooke Reimer

Brooke Reimer is a talented abstract artist from California who creates beautiful, textured paintings using materials like salt and paint. In this interview, she talks about her journey as an artist, what inspires her work, and how she manages to balance her busy life as a mom of four with her career. She shares the personal connections behind her art, the emotions and memories that guide her creative process, and highlights from her career, like showcasing her work at Milan Art & Fashion Week. Through this conversation, we get a closer look at Brooke’s passion for art and the challenges and joys that come with being both an artist and a mother.

Brooke Reimer is an abstract artist based in California, known for her use of salt, paint, and other media to create dynamic paintings on canvas. Her work is characterized by intricate textures, built up over many layers. Each piece is a dynamic interplay of materials that evokes curiosity, drawing viewers in and encouraging them to engage with the artwork up close—and even touch it. Through this experience, the artist hopes to create a dialogue between the viewer and the piece, inviting them to discover the layers and depth that emerge from unconventional media. Her work invites contemplation and a personal connection with viewers, which cannot easily be described with words. Brooke is currently represented by Perseus Gallery in New York City, and her work has been exhibited as part of a group show during the 2024 Art & Fashion Week in Milan, Italy.

1. How would you describe your art style and what inspired you to become an artist?

My art is abstract – simply because that’s what I enjoy. I don’t want my work to be immediately clear regarding what it is or what it’s representing. In my process, I use color and texture to create movement in my paintings. Of course, I’m highly inspired also by the beauty of the natural world. Many of my paintings are inspired by a certain emotion or a memory of how it felt to be looking at some naturally beautiful thing.

I was inspired by the fact that in older civilizations, people relied on organic resources from the earth to create everyday vessels for daily life.

Brooke Reimer

2. Can you tell us about a particular piece of art that holds special meaning for you?

My painting “Untold Stories” is part of my Terracotta collection, a series inspired by the earthy hues found in ancient, handmade earthen pots. I was inspired by the fact that in older civilizations, people relied on organic resources from the earth to create everyday vessels for daily life. They made bowls, tools, and even artwork from these raw, elemental resources. There was a simplicity in this process and a reverence for the cycles of the earth. I felt that by using salt as an organic material in my work, it was like blending the natural with the unnatural – salt with paint, to represent a sort of merging of the past and the present.

3. Can you describe a memorable experience or project that significantly impacted your career?

Certainly, exhibiting my work in Italy for Milan Art & Fashion week was a highlight. Also, having Perseus Gallery contact me to be represented by them long term. I’m very thankful and honored to be working with people in the industry.

4. What challenges have you faced as an artist, and how did you overcome them?

I think one of the biggest challenges for me personally has been how to balance the business side, with my personal life. My husband and I have four small children, and finding the time to paint and run my business is difficult. I’m thankful to have a supportive husband and family community who help me with our children but still striking that perfect balance between my role as loving mother and relatively ambitious artist has been quite difficult.

Many of my paintings are inspired by a certain emotion or a memory of how it felt to be looking at some naturally beautiful thing.

Brooke Reimer

5. What has been the most rewarding aspect of your art journey?

I think just seeing people enjoy my work. You really pour your heart and soul into your art – just naturally, that’s how the best art is made I think. So, seeing others share your joy and excitement about it is really the most exciting thing.

Brooke Reimer’s art is more than just paint on canvas; it’s an expression of emotion, nature, and personal connection. Through this interview, we’ve learned about the heart and soul behind her work, the inspiration she draws from the world around her, and the balance she strives to maintain between her art and her family. To learn more about Brooke, visit the links below.