Exhibit explores intersection of art, therapy

Friday, February 9, 2024
‘Joyful’ an abstract acrylic painting by Geraldine Brown
Anna LaBay/McCook Gazette

McCook, Neb. - Geraldine Brown, is a multifaceted individual with a deep-seated passion for art and mental health, is currently being showcased in the ‘Vault” at the McCook Art Guild this month. Known not only for her artistic skills but also for her extensive background in counseling and therapy, Brown seamlessly intertwines her two passions to create pieces that speak volumes about human emotions and experiences.

With a Master’s Degree in Counseling from the University of Nebraska and over two decades of experience as a licensed Independent Mental Health Practitioner and Professional Counselor in McCook, Brown’s holistic approach to art reflects her commitment to understanding the complexities of human potential and emotion.

Brown expressed how abstract art serves as a powerful medium for conveying emotions, citing her background as a psychotherapist as a significant influence on her artistic style. She elaborated on the emotional depth present in her paintings, revealing that each stroke and color choice is imbued with personal significance and meaning.

Working primarily with acrylics and employing brushes and knives to create intricate textures and layers, Brown’s artistic process is a blend of technique and emotional expression. She said “I’m an abstract artist just because it is one of the best ways to convey emotion. And emotions are kind of who I am, as a psychotherapist, it all just kind of runs together.”

Beyond her role as an artist, Brown is also certified in art therapy where she has provided one-on-one sessions with clients to explore healing through creative expression. Drawing inspiration from her mother, who was a painter, Brown’s early exposure to art served as a formative bonding experience, igniting her lifelong passion for creativity.

Reflecting on her creative journey, Brown candidly said “I love that the mistakes and fixing the mistakes and changing the mistakes are what gives a painting meaning.”

Whether completing a painting in hours or investing weeks into a single piece, Brown’s dedication to authenticity and emotive storytelling shines through in every brushstroke. Her unwavering belief in the value of imperfection and the transformative nature of creative expression resonate, solidifying her place as a revered artist and therapist in the local art community.

A reception for Geraldine Brown will be held from 1-4 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 10.

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