Brigitte Gionet
Brigitte Gionet stands as a vibrant figure in the cultural landscape of New Brunswick, where her unique artistry and vibrant palette reflect the province’s natural beauty and eclectic charm. Gionet opens up about her creative process, inspirations, and the joys and challenges of her artistic journey, providing a glimpse into the life of a passionate creator.
I always take time to stop and capture something that speaks to me or makes me feel a certain way.
Inspiration and the Creative Journey
Gionet's journey into the realm of art begins with the world around her, drawing heavily from her immediate environment. "I draw a lot of inspiration from my photography, nature, and fashion," Gionet shares. Her process often starts unexpectedly, with simple experiences like a lunch hour walk observing birds sparking the idea for one of her favourite pieces. Whether it’s a photograph she took or a spontaneous idea, Gionet embraces these moments with enthusiasm. “I love playing with bright colours and adore sprinkling whimsy and feelings of nostalgia in my pieces,” she adds, describing the joy she finds in bringing her visions to life.
Discovering Inspiration in the Everyday
Often, Gionet finds herself inspired by the ordinary, turning everyday experiences into profound artistic expressions. Road trips and staycations within New Brunswick have become a significant source of creativity, with each journey adding to her visual art diary. “I always take time to stop and capture something that speaks to me or makes me feel a certain way,” she explains, highlighting how these moments are meticulously transformed into vibrant watercolour paintings during her travels.
Embracing Challenges in Art
For Gionet, the artistic process is not without its hurdles. One major challenge she faces is the pressure of perfection, which can sometimes overshadow the fun and freedom of creation. “I usually try and keep myself in check and step away from a piece if I feel it's becoming too stressful,” she confesses, revealing her method for maintaining joy in her work. Furthermore, tackling self-doubt is an ongoing battle, managed by stepping out of her comfort zone. “Sometimes I lack confidence in my abilities and the way I deal with that is taking on opportunities that scare me,” Gionet remarks, reflecting on her growth through challenging experiences.
Memorable Works and Magical Moments
Gionet holds a special place in her heart for her 2022 Moonlight Bazaar paintings, which captured the lively atmosphere of a beloved community event. “There's such a buzz in the air of people all experiencing this really cool event together,” she recalls, emphasizing the communal joy that influenced these pieces. Another treasured artwork arose from a casual evening of photography at King’s Square, where she creatively directed a friend to capture the perfect shot. “It was such a gorgeous night and the glow of the lights made everything about it super magical,” Gionet reminisces, underlining the serendipitous nature of her creative process.
Upcoming Projects and Community Engagement
Looking ahead, Gionet is excited about several art shows scheduled at venues like Blink and Haven Music Hall and Cafe. These events provide her with the opportunity to share her work and connect with the audience. “I always try to incorporate some new work along with older pieces,” she notes, eager to display her artistic evolution. Beyond exhibitions, Gionet is deeply involved in her local artistic community, supporting other artists and small businesses passionately. “I feel so connected to these small businesses, bands, artisans and compelled to cheer them on in any way I can.”
Words of Wisdom for Aspiring Artists
For emerging artists, Gionet offers heartfelt advice that mirrors her own approach to art: “Try not to compare yourself to others and just keep focusing on doing what brings you joy and sharing your art with the world,” she advises. Her experiences remind us that art is not just about success but about expression and connection. “You truly never know,” she concludes, encouraging artists to embrace every opportunity with openness and curiosity.
Through her reflections, Brigitte Gionet not only paints a picture of her own artistic journey but also embodies the vibrant spirit of New Brunswick’s artistic community, inspiring both locals and visitors to engage deeply with the cultural offerings of this dynamic province. See more art by Brigitte Gionet.
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