I create portable and architectural works from the flotsam and detritus of the twenty-first century building industry. Most notably, my work incorporates salvaged or recycled stone, porcelain, and glass, much of it garnered from builders and manufacturers who purport to be “Green.” I hand cut these gleanings with Roman-era technology, and recombine the pieces based on ancient Byzantine poetic grammar. Many still refer to this art form as “mosaic,” and I do, too, sometimes. But in my own mind, I’m writing with hard garbage my own account of material existence.

IN THE STUDIO:

Right now I'm working on a series of seven art panels for the City of Wenatchee, WA, new public works building.  They're scheduled to be installed the week of 20 October.  Six are done, they're the first six images you'll see if you click here.

Coming up after that, I'll start work on another public art project for the City of Tacoma-Tacoma Power lobby and stairwell renovation.  The project includes a series of "durable mixed media collage" art panels composed of beautiful salvaged junk from Tacoma Power's electrical shop.  I like to think of the art panels as post-post-modern display cabinets.  The second row of images on my Commission Art Panels page shows the maquettes I created for the commission competition.

Jo Braun © 2002-2008. All rights reserved, property of Jo Braun and Studio Ravenna LLC. Images may not be reproduced in any form except with artist's permission.