We recently connected with Brenden Sanborn and have shared our conversation below.

Brenden, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Let’s jump back to the first dollar you earned as a creative? What can you share with us about how it happened?

Absolutely, it’s a memory I cherish. During my college years at SCAD, I had an opportunity one summer that marked the start of my professional artistic journey. A neighbor of mine, an artist specializing in woodworking, needed help painting several pieces with motifs of lighthouses, seagulls, and ocean vistas. It began with just a couple of pieces, but my enthusiasm and dedication quickly turned it into a much larger project. By the end of that summer, we had collaborated on over a hundred pieces. This experience not only gave me my first earnings as an artist but also taught me valuable lessons in negotiation and the importance of seizing opportunities. It was a defining moment that set the tone for my artistic 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.

I am Brenden Sanborn, an artist deeply rooted in the exploration of the human figure’s beauty and complexity. My artistic journey began in the small town of Exeter, New Hampshire, and has since brought me to South Florida in 2015, where I continue to evolve and grow as an artist.

Throughout my two-decade-long career, I’ve embraced a diverse array of mediums – from watercolors and oils to acrylics and digital art via Procreate. This versatility is a reflection of my constant quest for artistic growth and exploration.

For me, art is a spiritual quest that delves into the human condition. I view the human form as a confluence of strength, humility, and sensuality, and my art seeks to capture these nuances. Through subtle body language, expressive color, and thoughtful pen pressure, each of my pieces tells a unique story.

What truly sets my work apart is my intuitive approach to art. My use of color is deeply reflective of the emotional landscapes within me and my subjects. Like a unique sunset, each palette I choose tells its own emotional story, bringing depth and meaning to my work.

I am most proud of two things in my artistic journey: my work ethic and my relationships with my collectors. In my studio, I dedicate 6-8 hours a day to painting, a discipline that is both a commitment to my craft and a testament to my passion. Equally important is the relationship I’ve cultivated with my collectors. Painting the male figure for the majority of my career, I’ve strived to develop positive relationships and portray love between men in a positive light. This aspect of my work is incredibly fulfilling, as it allows me to contribute to a broader understanding and appreciation of diverse expressions of love and humanity.

For those new to my work, I extend an invitation to experience a world where emotion and form intersect beautifully. Through my art, I aim to offer a glimpse into the diverse realms of human experience, hoping to connect with others through the universal language of emotion and artistic expression.

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

At the core of my artistic endeavor is the belief that ‘Love is Love.’ This mantra not only drives my creative journey but also shapes my mission as an artist. My goal is to cast a positive, enlightening light on the male figure and gay love, showcasing aspects that are often overlooked or underrepresented in mainstream art.

I strive to capture the vulnerability and tenderness inherent in the male form, breaking down the conventional stereotypes that often surround masculinity. Through my art, I aim to challenge and expand the traditional narratives, highlighting the emotional depth, sensitivity, and the genuine affection found in relationships between men.

This mission is not just about creating art; it’s about fostering understanding and acceptance. By portraying these intimate and heartfelt moments, I hope to contribute to a broader societal conversation about love and relationships, emphasizing that regardless of gender, the emotional experience of love is universal and deserves to be celebrated and respected.

Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?

Building my audience on social media has been a journey rooted in authenticity and engagement. From the outset, I focused not just on showcasing my finished artwork but on creating a space where people could connect, engage, and feel part of a community.

Consistency has been key. Regular updates and fresh content have helped keep my audience engaged and excited about my work. Alongside this, honesty has played a crucial role. I believe in being genuine in my social media interactions, sharing not only the successes but also the challenges and inspirations behind my work.

One of the most significant aspects of my strategy has been sharing behind-the-scenes content. Giving my audience glimpses of works in progress and insights into my creative process has been instrumental in my success. This transparency allows people to connect with my art on a deeper level, understanding the journey from conception to completion. It’s about showing the real, unpolished side of art-making, which I believe is incredibly compelling and relatable.

Engaging with my audience, responding to comments, and fostering a sense of community have been incredibly rewarding. It’s about creating a dialogue and building relationships with those who appreciate my work.

For artists just starting on social media, my advice is to be proud of what you share and remember that not everything needs to go viral to be valuable. Share both your final pieces and your creative process. This approach not only showcases your art but also invites people into your world, making them feel a part of your artistic journey.

In summary, stay true to yourself, share your journey authentically, engage with your community, and be patient as you build your presence. Social media is a powerful tool to not just display art but to tell the story behind it.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.brendensanborn.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brenden.sanborn/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brenden.sanborn.art
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brendensanborn/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@BrendenSanborn
• Other: shop.brendensanborn.com

Image Credits
Artist Brenden Sanborn