Today we’d like to introduce you to Irene Antonia Diane Reece.
Every artist has a unique story. Can you briefly walk us through yours?
I was born and raised in Houston, Texas. From the age of four, I have been captivated by the arts. Growing up with a father that is a writer, I have always been surrounded by creative people – musicians, dancers, writers, filmmakers, and painters. Originally, I was a Music Performance major but changed it after taking on my first Traditional Photography class at Houston Community College. In the fall of 2013, I started undergrad studies at the University of Houston. Also, in the fall of that year, I was diagnosed with a prolactinoma pituitary tumor, a benign brain tumor. Over the winter break, I had surgery and recovered. The following spring, I applied for BLOCK, the University’s BFA Program in Photography. In the fall of 2014, I was admitted into the program. I will be graduating in May with my BFA and pursuing Graduate School at Paris College of Art in Paris, France; there I will receive my MFA in Photography and Image-making.
Please tell us about your art.
My early work initially acted as a catharsis for my struggles with my brain tumor. It also revolved around my older brother, who is autistic, echolaliac, and mentally challenged. I was and still am interested in how he views the world and how society’s view of him, which in my mind reflects the treatment of mental illness in general. I have since then explored the neglect of the elderly as played out through a series of films and photographs that deal with my own great-aunt’s careless treatment and subsequent death. Both my films and my photography are a cathartic way for me to deal with her loss and as well as keep her memory current.
Art confronts me, always; on the spiritual, the political, the sentimental, the physical, the subconscious and the emotional. So, I attempt to harness that same energy and transfer it into the art that I create.
What do you think is the biggest challenge facing artists today?
Specifically for me, there aren’t enough platforms for POC artist. It seems like we are underrepresented in the art scene in Houston. I notice around Houston the new young artists, like myself are curating and creating their own shows, an “underground” vibe instead of submitting to open calls/proposals. It amazing that they’re promoting and showcasing on their own, yet you don’t see any writings or reviews about them. We need to be given the opportunity to showcase our work more.
Another challenge facing young artist today is the lack to disengage when someone doesn’t like your art. You don’t need anyone’s approval for your work, it’s nice to receive compliments and admiration for your work however if you don’t receive praises it’s not the end of the world. The point is you should be proud of your work first and foremost.
How or where can people see your work? How can people support your work?
Recently I took part in a group exhibition called: “El Chow Fruto En Vaina”, a latinx show curated by Maureen Penders. Sadly, the show ended, however, I always give my viewers updates on what I’m doing via Instagram or my Facebook page. I do also have a website: www.irenereece.com. I think the best way to support my work is to engage with me, ask me questions, instead of just liking a post. I love it when people have questions about my work.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.irenereece.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reanie_beanie/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/irenereeceart/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/reanie_beanie
Image Credit:
Mon Frère installation shot by Ronald L. Jones
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