Joyce Lee, Staff Writer

There is a grand community of artists in Syracuse – some well-known, some at the creative fringe, and others whom we have yet to discover. One of our aims on the Connective Corridor is to seek out these folks and highlight their endeavors. This year, we’ve had the pleasure of following Briana Kohlbrenner and her triumphs as an up-and-coming regional artist.

It’s hard to believe nine months have gone by, and this is our last official story on Bre as an “Artist Uncovered.” As the warm weather starts to roll around and summer is within our grasp, many of us find our thoughts turning to serene pursuits. Not Bre! In her typical fashion, she has identified several exciting adventures for the coming months: 

• The first project on the horizon is the June 4 “Funky Flea,” a Brooklyn flea market-inspired theme, which will channel the Salt City Urban Art & Craft Market.  
• Together with the Syracuse Public Artist in Residence (SPAR), Brendan Rose, an as-of-yet-unnamed project will have off-the-wall installations (literally!) in multiple gallery spaces and possibly a park, along with live music to heighten the viewer’s experience. Briana hopes this will be the “it thing” this summer that everyone will be eager to see. 
• The Public Arts Task Force is working to develop a series of creative bike racks. These may include an atom particle bike rack, which could sit near the MOST; a pasta-maker with noodles as chains, placed in the Northside; a sculptural tree forest between Hanover and Clinton Squares; and, huge film reels located near the Palace Theater.

Clearly, she’s never short on ideas!

She realizes that balance is key, though. After putting on a number of shows and events, it’s time for vacation. So it’s off to the beach, right? Not this artist! Briana plans to visit several big cities, including New York and Chicago, to check out galleries and gather ideas for her future shows. She hopes to be inspired by what they have to offer and come back to Syracuse refreshed and ready to make the most of the city’s potential.

“Summer road trips are the best because you’re destination-bound, wind in your hair, hot sun on the dashboard, music blaring, feeling free as can be! Like the world is yours. My husband and I always have the best conversations about our lives and our passions. It’s that energy that I bring back to Syracuse – ready to push up my sleeves and get stuff done!”

And we’ll be ready to greet you, Bre. Thanks for letting us follow you around this year!