Marissa Bridge is an artist whose work has always been inspired by nature, as a study in spirit, form, and pattern. She works in series, as a method of investigation and as a meditative process. In addition to painting in oil and acrylic, she creates 3-D mixed media pieces out of recycled paper and other repurposed materials such as nails, beads, seeds, glass and stones.

Her current work explores the theme of the circle and the eternal rebirth of nature. In addition, she is studying what it means to be a centered individual, and the connections between and among individuals in large groups.

Each of the multi-media artworks called Centers is a unique design, based on a real flower, but transformed into something new. They are related to mandalas and other circular art forms. Each one exists as a single artwork and represents an individual, but they are all part of one idea and look well hung in groups.

The Mummers series of paintings embody Bridge’s ideas on community, relationship, and time. Each of these artworks is distinctive in its overall patterning, whether on a canvas, elephant sculpture, or watercolor. These artworks show how various states of being come together as a unified whole, with some buds just forming, some blossoms beginning to open, others hanging low in preparation for death. Certain life forms relate well to those near them, while others are more isolated.

Bridge’s body of work represents an ongoing artistic investigation, with the flower as metaphor being central to her practice for many years. In developing these ideas further, she has explored both her personal history as an artist and as a female, as well as the broader tradition of women’s work, art, crafts, sewing, and all other women’s work that’s been done since time immemorial. Using her memories, following her curiosity, and keeping open to the art being made today, is what gives Bridge the insight and energy to create new ideas for art projects attuned to our current times.

Ms. Bridge has been an exhibiting artist for three decades and has shown in museums and galleries. Her work is in collections in the U.S., the Caribbean, and Europe. She is an environmental activist and spends most of her time practicing art at her home in the Hamptons area of Long Island, NY. She also maintains an art studio in New York City.

ARTIST’S STATEMENT

The origin of these pieces is my appreciation of Mother Nature’s wondrous variety of reproductive systems that have evolved over eons. The works call to mind gardens and fertility as they contain a blend of female and flower imagery.
They are meant to be symbols of healing and empowerment. These artworks are made from oil paint, sterling silver, paper, modeling paste, nails, seeds, wood, beads, pearls, glass, stones, wire, and bits of mirror. Although creating all the components by hand presents many challenges, there is a sense of peace that comes over me when making them. My goal with this work is to generate cultural change by encouraging love and respect for nature and our shared humanity. I hope my art provides the viewer with a sense of wonder and gives pleasure during these troubled times.