Fanny brodar: SPOTLIGHT

YOUR BACKGROUND IN ILLUSTRATION REALLY SHINES THROUGH IN YOUR WORK. HOW HAS YOUR TRAINING SHAPED THE WAY YOU APPROACH FINE ART TODAY?

While I’m not always sure this is a good thing—because over the years I’ve tried to become more of a fine artist—I’m definitely stuck in the drawing mode, haha. I do admire artists who have beautiful linework balanced with the textural quality of their art. I try to do both. I also think my sense of humor, or rather view of the world (which for the most part sees it as a bit of a comedy at times), shows in my work. Studying and teaching comic book illustration in particular is probably deeply seeded within my subconscious too—especially the composition aspect.

YOU’VE MENTIONED BEING INFLUENCED BY JAPANESE ART AND ARTISTS LIKE ROSE WYLIE. WHAT IS IT ABOUT THEIR STYLE OR SPIRIT THAT RESONATES WITH YOU?

Today I’m less influenced by Japanese art, but when I started it was a strong influence, as I had a very character-strong style. I still love Rose Wylie—I love her loose playfulness and view of the world around her. I’ve since come to love many other artists that I’ve become acquainted with, but I look less at others’ art now and mostly look at my own as a reference, because it can interrupt my flow.

PLAYFULNESS SEEMS TO BE A KEY THEME IN YOUR WORK. WHAT DOES PLAY MEAN TO YOU IN THE CONTEXT OF ART AND CREATIVITY?

At a certain point when I’m painting—if I’m having a good day—things flow. When this happens, it’s very Buddhist-like. It’s a moment when I feel like a child with no judgment of what I’m doing and free to do what I want. I wish I had more of these moments. They usually come after a long day. Being a busy mom, I rarely have long days. I need another residency!

YOU GREW UP IN NEW YORK, STUDIED IN BOSTON, AND NOW LIVE IN MAINE. HOW HAVE THESE VERY DIFFERENT ENVIRONMENTS INFLUENCED YOUR PERSPECTIVE AS AN ARTIST?

I’m stimulated by being in many environments, so it’s been great to have this sort of encyclopedia of life experiences as reference when I paint. I’m most comfortable painting around nature, however—I find the peace helps me stay calm and focused.

WHAT WAS YOUR RESPONSE WHEN 4BYSIX INVITED YOU TO PARTICIPATE IN THIS INITIATIVE?

I was happy to contribute! I love what you guys do, and have worked with you before.

HOW DO YOU SEE YOUR WORK CONTRIBUTING TO 4BYSIX’S MISSION OF SUPPORTING COMMUNITIES THROUGH CREATIVITY?

I ultimately hope to inspire someone who otherwise might not have an opportunity. Creativity is healing on so many levels and can change lives.

CAN YOU SHARE THE STORY OR IDEA BEHIND THE PIECE YOU CREATED FOR THIS COLLABORATION?

I wanted to do something simple, bright, and fun that would elicit positive vibes.

MUCH OF YOUR WORK CARRIES A SENSE OF NOSTALGIA AND WARMTH—IS THAT SOMETHING YOU INTENTIONALLY BRING TO YOUR PIECES, OR DOES IT HAPPEN ORGANICALLY?

I’m so happy to hear you say that! Painting is my ikigai and I think this organically comes through.

WHAT DO YOU HOPE VIEWERS FEEL OR THINK WHEN THEY ENCOUNTER YOUR WORK IN THE 4BYSIX AUCTION?

Everything mentioned above: warmth, positivity, hope, playfulness.

WHAT ARE YOUR HOPES FOR THE FUTURE OF YOUR PRACTICE, AND HOW DO YOU SEE YOURSELF USING ART TO ENGAGE WITH THE WORLD AROUND YOU?

I hope to be looser, use more texture, become a bit more abstract and painterly. I’d love to be in a great gallery in every region of the world. I’m slowly meeting those goals.