About our exhibition judge T. Branson
T. Branson's Background
T. Branson began painting after a career as a forensic investigator and a trauma nurse, occupations which gave her ample opportunity to observe the human body and consider the human condition. She began painting as a respite from a stressful and challenging career, inspired by her mother who was a professional painter. Branson quickly focused on hands as her exclusive subject - working hands, common hands, overlooked hands – always trying to create a lasting and moving image. She has depicted the hands of musicians, cowboys, homeless people, and craftsmen. You can see more of her work on her website https://bransonhands.com/
Inspiration
“After moving from Arizona to Colorado in 2000 to pursue a more reflective life, I discovered an unexpected talent for drawing at the age of 46. What began as a simple sketch of a hand has evolved into a dedicated collection of portraits focused on the details and language of specific individual's hands.
My process is rooted in a deep observation of nature, anatomy, light, and movement. While I have studied the work of many incredible artists, each piece that I create remains a journey of discovery for me. I view this late-blooming talent as a divine gift—one that I recognized and accepted through a profound sense of gratitude.”
Recognition
Some of Branson’s most moving paintings, depicting moments in the lives of military families, have been exhibited in the Pentagon and in the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library.