We recently connected with Brandon DeNormandie and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Brandon, thanks for joining us today. When did you first know you wanted to pursue a creative/artistic path professionally?
Art has always been the cornerstone of my life. As a child, I found joy in painting and drawing, honing my skills through relentless practice. While reading and writing didn’t interest me as much, I poured my energy into perfecting my visual creations, often sketching and refining portraits until they met my exacting standards. As I transitioned into adulthood, I chose to follow my passion, enrolling at the American Academy of Art in Chicago to pursue a degree in graphic design. So ,from the age of 10, art has been my guiding force, shaping my path and defining my career.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
During my youth, there was an undeniable drive within me to strive for excellence. Being raised by a successful business owner, my father’s achievements and deep industry knowledge inspired me to pursue similar heights. At just 17 years old, I vividly recall applying for a job at a car wash where my friends worked, wearing a suit for the interview. Securing the position marked the beginning of my adulthood, eventually turning into my role as a manager overseeing a team of over 20 employees. It was the weight of responsibility that invigorated me most, with problem-solving emerging as a natural strength, a trait that continues to serve me well in my current career. Creative work, in particular, demands a delicate balance between capability and reality, a challenge I’ve consistently embraced.
In 2008, I found myself in the role of a media buyer at a small firm, tasked with crafting marketing strategies for the higher education sector. Over the course of nine years, I morphed into a versatile professional, assuming various roles including that of a creative director. Leveraging my diverse skill set encompassing creativity, design, marketing, leadership, and media buying, I played a pivotal role in shaping successful brands for our clients. This comprehensive understanding of different facets of business ultimately led me to the realization that entrepreneurship was my true calling. In 2017, I made the decision to depart from the high-pressure corporate environment, redirecting my focus towards assisting small businesses and nurturing my own brand. This transition proved to be one of the most rewarding decisions of my life, affording me the opportunity to reconnect with my artistic roots and into the realm of fine art once more.
As a child, I was inherently drawn to the outdoors, finding solace and adventure in nature’s embrace. Fond memories of carefree evenings spent at the park, with no technology (cell phones) and a poor watch on time. An appreciation for the details of nature set me apart from my friends, fueling my passion for outdoor exploration. Over the years, it led me on countless hikes and adventures across the United States, There was something special about looking out at the vast wilderness from the top of a mountain and feeling like we are so small in this world. These experiences serve as the foundation for my art, with each piece bearing the imprint of a specific emotion or memory from my travels. Incorporating actual found objects from my adventures, I strive to capture the essence of each moment, offering viewers a glimpse into my transformative experiences.
Among my most cherished works are those adorning the walls of Trailyard, an outdoor-themed restaurant/bar/outpost nestled in Valparaiso, IN. A labor of love reminiscent of the landscapes of Colorado, this establishment boasts a collection of 11 distinct art pieces, including a majestic sandhill crane metal sculpture hanging from the ceiling and a sprawling rotating mixed-media landscape. These pieces, revered for their unparalleled uniqueness, continue to captivate patrons, serving as a testament to the power of art to evoke wonder and intrigue.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
As an artist, the most fulfilling part is witnessing the emotional resonance my work evokes. Often, clients are captivated by the enchanting experiences it conjures. Just as I pour my heart into creating, viewers are transported to their own memories, experiences, and emotions. It’s in those moments that I feel a profound connection, bringing me immense joy!
In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?
I believe the most effective way for society to support artists is by actively seeking opportunities in daily life where artists can contribute. In our current era, we often prioritize cost over quality, overlooking the value artists bring. Many artists create work or products they’re truly passionate about, resulting in items of enduring quality. Too often, we opt for cheap, disposable goods, inadvertently supporting large overseas companies. As an artist, I advocate for supporting the arts every day. Whether it’s a belt or shirt, I purchase from artists, thereby supporting their families. Embracing this mindset can foster local growth and support. For those new to art collecting, starting with prints is a great way to appreciate artists’ work affordably while showing support.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://linktr.ee/b.denormandie.art
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/b.denormandie.art/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/b.denormandie.art
Image Credits
On all the outdoor shots only: Credit: @thepicturepedaler
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