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BIO
Brianne Chisholm has spent majority of her life observing the natural world in constant pursuit of the significance behind the small things and where we reside within them. Finding inspiration through symbolic synchronicity in dreams and waking life, Chisholm often explores and creates narratives around these little accords in an effort to explore and affirm who she is, where she has been, and where she may be going. Other notable themes include death and rebirth as well as ecological and social influences.

Often times concepts are thoroughly researched prior to creation, and other times the piece takes on a different or more significant meaning as the hours are passed into the work. Working mainly with the stippling technique, Chisholm can spend up to 200 hours on a single piece. With a focus on technique and materials, the art becomes a grounding craft with a discipline in concentration and meditation.

Chisholm resides and works in Fernie, British Columbia. 

FAQ & Tattoo

Can I get your work as a tattoo?
Yes, however:
I don’t do custom tattoo designs, but thank you for thinking of me. If you see something I've already made that seems like the tattoo for you, go for it. However, I do ask that you pay a tattoo contribution in my webstore and here's why. It took a lot of time to create the image you love, and when you get it as a tattoo, you're paying another trained professional to beautifully add this work to your body, but not paying the artist who created the image. 

Isn't buying a print the same as a tattoo contribution?

No, and here’s why. Prints cost money to create, time to sign, package and ship. Purchasing a print covers the cost of a print. But when you get a tattoo, you’re affecting the entire culture of art makers everywhere. Supporting the creation of that work which is forever licensed on your body should be worth something. To keep ideas coming we need to take care of our creatives and not assume that the honor of having art on your body is enough.
Do you do commissions?
I will selectively take on personal commissions if after a consultation I feel that the project is a good fit. If you are interested in discussing a commission please contact me with your idea.
How long does it take to finish a piece?
Each piece is very unique. It can range anywhere from 30 hours on a small drawing to 200+ for a larger stipple piece. Paintings often start as black and white values with added glazing to build the colour and detail I am looking for. Then there is the added time of conceptualizing and researching the subject. To this, I cannot say how long I put into the work.
Have you always been into art, or is it something you chose to study?
Ever since I was young I have always had a pencil in hand. I had the most supportive parents that noticed my interest and encouraged me by providing new materials and opportunities where possible. Completely self taught, it has always been a grounding presence that has defined my life.
Is your work hand drawn, and what is your process?
Yes. I do dabble with electronic design work and illustration, but each piece is hand drawn first using simply a ruler, protractor and compass. Once I have the concept of a piece decided, I set out to first lightly graph the page before sketching in the subject. From there I continue to add fine lines in details with graphite before outlining over everything with ink. From there I work in small sections to add shading and further details.
Are your skulls for sale?
No. The pieces in the Death and Rebirth collaborative series are not available for sale. There is provincial legislation throughout Canada that regulates the ownership and sale of wildlife skulls. Any remaining pieces from the exhibit are unable to be sold.
Will you take a commission to work on an animal skull?
Perhaps. It is best to contact me directly to inquire. You must have legally acquired the skull, have permitted ownership and must provide all the appropriate permits regarding ownership and transportation if necessary.