About — Patrice Brewer

My early love for art

My passion for art started as a young girl sitting next to my father, watching him paint. He was a talented "free-hand" sign writer and artist. His work fascinated me and I dreamed of one day sharing a space with him at his easel. However, my father successfully talked me out of pursuing a career in art, saying it is a "poor man's" profession—compensated by a passion and love for what he does but little else. And so I put my dreams of becoming an artist aside.

A passion reawakened

Years later on my 30th birthday, my husband gifted me with classes to the Baton Rouge Fine Arts Academy and my passion for art was reawakened. In my years of studying with Larry Casso, I was surrounded by talented artists who encouraged, motivated, inspired, and challenged me.

Although I spent most of my time working with watercolor, I also studied charcoal, pastels, acrylics, and oil. It gave me a tremendous appreciation for all forms of art and an even greater appreciation for the words my father imparted. It was then I realized it is not the price tag attached to a painting that determines its true value, but what it stirs inside as I hold the brush in my hand. Each of my paintings holds a story. Whether it is a story of accomplishment or of frustration and determination to learn something new, each fulfills the drive within me to create a work of art.

My work today

I am currently volunteering at the Oncology and Hematology Clinic (Dr. Miletello), on site at the Baton Rouge General, working with cancer patients. Prior to Covid, I worked as an Artist in Residence at the Baton Rouge General Medical Center. My goal then, and now, is to encourage patients to explore their own creativity by offering not merely a distraction from their illness, but an outlet which inspires hope throughout treatment—especially for those undergoing chemotherapy. To share my gift with others who are sick and suffering, in an effort to help make a difference in their lives, is truly the most humbling and rewarding experience ever! I am profoundly blessed by each and every patient I am privileged to meet.

I also continue to paint in my spare time and experiment with new techniques and styles, which you'll find here on this site. My portfolio tells a story from my first art lesson to where I am today. I hope there are obvious signs of improvement, but even more than that, I hope my story will encourage anyone who is interested in art to follow their dreams.

Education and Experience

25 years of study at Baton Rouge Fine Arts Academy under Larry Casso
Workshops with artists such as Tom Lynch, Suzanne Reese Winton, Louise Hansen, and Mary Monk
Artist in Residence at Baton Rouge General Medical Center

Memberships

Exhibitions

Acadian Art Festival
West Baton Rouge Spring Art Show
Baton Rouge General Cafe’ Gallery
Beauregard Café’ and Gallery representing Baton Rouge General Arts in Medicine
Manship Art Shows at The Manship Theatre representing Baton Rouge General Arts in Medicine