Spotlight on Local Artist – Brook Huffman

Salon Suites Spotlights Local Artist

Salon Suites is proud to spotlight Brook Huffman. Brook Huffman is a mother of three, who grew up in Cullman Alabama. Brook began creating art because she needed a creative outlet. She found painting fulfilling and therapeutic. She loves painting because they are open to interpretations and it evokes emotion.  The medium Brook uses to create is acrylic and multimedia. She was inspired to become an artist because of the childhood memories she shared with her grandmother, Jonnie. Brook considers herself an outside artist which is an artist who is self-taught but has the desire to share their art with the world. Her favorite type of painting is abstract and landscape. We had the opportunity to have a Q&A with Brook. Salon Suites is pleased to spotlight local artist Brook Huffman.

Brook Huffman Q&A

What inspires you most as an artist?

I am always inspired by music. I listen to all genres of music and can remember what song influences each piece of art. But when I really need inspiration, I take myself on what Julia Cameron calls an, “art date.” This date with myself can be anything from a hike to a trip to the farmers market, to an Oriental Supermarket. I try to do this every week or so and find if I court my inner artist (as my husband would a wife) she is more likely to respond to my creativity.

How has your art evolved?

My art has changed in dimension. I now use layers in my work. Sometimes I will draw something and cover it with another paint. Most of the time, no one knows the completed painting has been reincarnated and there is another live hiding in what currently appears. But as the artist, I know that each piece has a story to tell and more ever, I have the privilege of living those lives with it.

What is your favorite piece of work?

My favorite piece of art is Fresh Start. It is the perfect example a piece of art with depth and lots of stories to tell.  Upon first look, it may appear quite simple: a mostly black and white abstract. However, this work is actually older than I am. It was living a different life when I found it and made it mine. It has moved with me to 5 different dwellings, which is significant because it was always too big to fit in my SUV or car and I had to rely on other people to help me move it. It has now found a soft place to land in Colonnade office at Salon Suites. I am grateful it has fresh eyes to see it.

What most excites you about showcasing your art at Salon Suites?

I think Salon Suites is a great concept. It allows people to be together but also independent. It is a great example of community and American’s to support small local business and entrepreneurship. Salon Suites offers diversity as it is a great place for people from all walks of life can come together in a central location. What better place to showcase my art in a place where art is created all day every day. I am honored to be a part of it.