Brett Svetlik
About the Artist
Brett came to Montana in pursuit of the Fine Arts and has two art degrees from the University of Montana, Missoula, and Boston University, Boston. He currently resides and works in Whitefish, Montana as a craftsman, artist and dog sport promoter. His outdoor interests keep him busy and remain influential in his work. Originally trained in drawing, printmaking and painting, his work is now leaning towards mixed media and sculpture.
Artist Statement
This series of work is an experiment with a person’s concept of private property and their sense of security. I’m including the public in a private ordeal. I am disheartened with the destruction of natural landscapes to feed the growth of the human population. Many people use the color orange to advertise that the property marked is private. The property in this piece was purchased, subdivided and advertised to be sold as ranch parcels. The real estate market crashed, the lots went unsold, and we were left with a dozen empty properties behind a fancy metal gate and orange signs on every other fence post. This private community sits undeveloped to this date. Why are people drawn to a private community? Security, class, inclusion, seclusion? As the public drives by, I hope to share a sense of inclusion and humor as they see some familiar colors, ROYGBV.