Brandon MarquetteWilliams, the story of an Artist.

Art has always been a large part of my life. I grew upon a farm in Kansas, and got used to looking for the small things. I loved leaves and natural textures. Art was everywhere for me.

I am Brandon Marquette Williams, an artist whose creations reflect the intricate tapestry woven by my life's journey. Hailing from a serene town in central Kansas, my childhood was a canvas painted with the vibrant hues of nature's beauty. From marveling at the tiny bugs to admiring the lush grasses and the fine textures of the world around me, I discovered art in the simplest of things.

After completing my Associate in Arts degree from Southwestern Oregon Community College, my journey led me from the majestic landscapes of Alaska to the artistic hub of Oregon and eventually to the vibrant cityscape of Las Vegas and on to the cultural and artistic mecca of Chicago.

My artistic sojourn began in Southeast Alaska, where I immersed myself in the rich cultural tapestries of the Tlingit, Haida, and Tshimian peoples. Here, I learned the rules of traditional form line art techniques and absorbed the profound stories connecting the art style to the local culture. 

Seeking a deeper connection with the ocean, I ventured into the depths of scuba diving, spending years exploring the mesmerizing waters of Southeast Alaska while working aboard the ships of the Alaska Marine Highway System.

The misty shades of the forest, the tranquil waters, and the vivid contrasts of Alaska's natural beauty left an indelible imprint on my artistic soul. These memories resonate in my work, infusing it with a dance of light, shadow, and vibrant colors, capturing the essence of the Alaskan wilderness.

Amidst the eerie silence that enveloped an empty Las Vegas during the pandemic's early days, I discovered not just love and marriage but a wellspring of inspiration. Founding OctoberCoast Art in 2021, I sketched portraits on Fremont Street. I delved into a plethora of new mediums, from experimenting with ink and bleach to the intricate application of gold leaf, breathing life into my evolving creations.

My return to Chicago in 2021 heralded a new chapter in my artistic narrative. Driven by a desire to explore uncharted territories, I delved into themes that resonate deeply within me - from the cosmic odyssey of a dying whale in "A Whale’s Onus" to the celebration of inner richness in "Colored Girls Have Colorful Souls," and the poignant portrayal of concealed emotions in "Depression."

Driven by the desire to reinvent his art, my wife and i embarked on a new adventure back to Chicago. However, a startling revelation of cataracts clouding both of my eyes presented me with a formidable challenge.

The summer of 2022 turned into a real test of my strength, will, and patience as i navigated a world blurred by limited vision. Taking a brave move, I started a GoFundMe campaign to gather support for the crucial surgery that could bring back my sight and revive my artistic drive.

In a surprising turn of events, my determination caught the eye of famous YouTuber MrBeast, who generously donated $20,000, paving the way for my life-changing surgery and a renewed art adventure.

October 2022, OctoberCoast Art reopened and welcomed back visitors with fresh themes and creative projects, celebrating the beauty of everyday life. Among them, a highlight was the joy of seeing my children clearly and immersing myself in the art I adore.

My art embodies a fusion of classical techniques and modern innovations, reflecting the diverse experiences that have shaped my worldview. I gravitate towards themes such as nature, animals, fossils, and natural history, often juxtaposed with human faces or abstract backgrounds, which have become my preferred subjects.

 From the boundless prairies of Kansas to the solitude of Alaska, from the joys of parenthood to the resilience forged in adversity, each moment finds its voice in my artistic expressions. Art, for me, transcends mere imagery; it encapsulates a narrative woven from the threads of lived experiences.

As I set my gaze on the next chapter of my artistic expedition at SAIC, I eagerly anticipate a journey marked by continual growth, fresh revelations, and innovative techniques to share my artistic vision with the world. Embark on my artistic odyssey by visiting www.octobercoast.art.