Brittany Noriega is an artist in the Kansas City area with a background in studio art, sociology and health science. Her artwork focuses on themes of healing and overcoming trauma, with an emphasis on expressing human emotion. Brittany’s work has been published both nationally and internationally. Noriega's artwork is on display at the Lenexa City Center Library until April 21, 2022.
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Tell us about the works on view. What’s the medium? What has inspired their creation?
I call this collection of paintings Plastic Mind. I created most of them while working through some past traumatic experiences. I have always been fascinated by the resilience of the human spirit and the ability for people to overcome tragedy, loss and trauma, and I enjoy exploring these topics through my artwork. These works are mostly graphite, acrylic and plastic sculpture.
What themes do you pursue?
In college I studied studio art and sociology and this has always stuck with me. I love people, and I love learning about why they do what they do. I often focus on growth through and after trauma, because I have a personal understanding of these themes and feel that I can connect with them in an honest way.
What do you feel is your role as an artist?
I don’t feel like I have a particular role as an artist because it is just part of who I am. I am honest and open about my experiences, as well as about using art both as a passion and a tool to heal. If this helps others be more open about their experiences or introduces them to new artistic hobbies, all the better.
What areas of your work or personal development are you hoping to explore further?
I will always continue my artistic practice and let it lead me. Lately, the medium has shifted, but the theme has not. I have been developing my public speaking skills in relation to my art practice, and that has been something that is both challenging and rewarding.
What is your most important artistic tool? Is there something you can’t live without in your studio?
I couldn’t do anything I do without my pencil. Simple and trustworthy.
Please list 5-10 books, movies and/or music that have inspired you?
I am an avid reader. A few of the books I have read lately that have stuck with me and inspired my artistic practice are:
Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert
Braving the Wilderness by Brené Brown
Caste by Isabel Wilkerson
The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk
Ninth Street Women by Mary Gabriel
Think Again by Adam Grant
Strange Tools: Art and Human Nature by Alva Noë
The Beauty in Breaking by Michele Harper
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