Studio Artwork by Patricia Briones

"Bevo on the Brazos", partial area of original painting.

The Texas country side seems to have the most powerful energy which also inspires me to paint. I really don’t consider myself a painter first. When the mood strikes I paint outdoors for the prefered natural light, finishing a painting is the hard part. Metal relief is my main interest & the most physical work I create. Most of the relief work has been inspired by folk tales I've read over the years. There are some inspired pieces from particular productions of the Houston Grand Opera or after reading some of the original folklore an aria may have been based upon.

Any “Grand promotion”, for my work is not necessary to me since I'm still learninge, but I do like to show my work to others. I'm mostly a self taught artist who grew up in a very close and creative family environment.

My father Robert Briones Sr. graduated with a degree in Telecommunications from the University of Austin Texas. "Hook - Em!" Dad then promptly started a family owned an operated business which has made custom southwestern designed furniture & antique reproductions for over thirty years. I still don't get that decision completely, but I do remembering him saying once "...never go to college for the sake of money, go for something you want to learn about...", and then something about "...all the books at the library are free etc ...". Frankly, I regret not having a more stern endorsement to finish college. Not that it held me back from going at all because I did go for a short time to study English Literature & "Creative Writting".

Bit more about family business: The work has been sold mainly through antique dealers and designers through out Central Texas. So "yes", there are a few pieces of furniture out there with my artwork on them but only years after being a sort of apprentice to my fathers meticulous order and his approval. The Briones family of Artisans has continued to produce pottery, paintings, wooden sculptures, furniture, & wood carvings to this day. Working with my family was entense so it did take sometime for me to even think of working with other artists or on my own. When I did decide to work with other artists it invariably helped broaden my scope of how I wanted to develop my own creative direction.

It's very dificult to separate the family influence from most of my significant ventures. Although I'm originally from Michigan, Texas is where I grew up. Five other siblings, and I spent a lot of time outdoors. Hunting, fishing, camping, enjoying the springs, or canoeing around Lake Medina was typical for "family fun activity". Coincidently "Memories of Medina", an acrylic painting which was awarded some recognition from the National Arts Program while on exhibit in the Julia Butridge Gallery in Austin TX., was so inspired. It's not hard to stay true to my personal inspirations.

The last exhibit I was invited to show at was at the Jean Moulin Gallery in Austin, TX. Another exhibit of course all depends on the work I am trying to finish. Artwork doesn't have a deadline in my mind, although it is an honor to participate along with other artist I have never been able to finish anything in rapid time to exhibit annually. Currently, I've relocated to Seattle Washington; you could say I am trying to "refocus", away from the clan. The "Great North West" is so different for me but I plan on staying here for a few years and to have another show as soon as the paint dries or I put the hammer down, then "go home".

Monarch in Glory

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PATRICIA BRIONES has also participated in events or exhibited at the following sites:

• Jean Moulin Gallery, Austin Texas
• The Dougherty Arts Center
• National Arts Program
• Farmers Market & Art Community, Elgin TX
• Yale Street Arts Market
• Art League Houston
• Heights 1st Saturday

CONTACT INFORMATION :

Patricia lives and works in the Seattle area now, contact her via email.