Christopher Brennikmeijer

St Louis

My exhibition follows the theme of “who” and “how”. Whom I have become and How I became this person. Describing which specific experiences and memories altered the path which I travel. Which is why I have named my exhibition, ‘Untitled Choices’. I believe it accurately presents the impact of choices, even at such a young age. I came to ‘Untitled’ because when I thought back to impactful memories and experiences, they began at a much younger age than I had initially thought. Most of these early decisions were not taken by me but in my interest.

My exhibition started through the exploration of significant moments in my life. I came to find these moments by thinking of my personal qualities. What came to mind first was ‘responsibility’. Responsibility was taught to me at an early age, through my development in the equestrian sport.

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IB ART EXHIBITION | 2020 - 2021

My second significant moment came to me through the qualities of acceptance and understanding. My mother is the origin of who I am today; she taught me everything about being a good person who contributes positively to society.

My third collection of moments that altered my life’s course was my introduction to classic cars by my father. The beauty, elegance and joy of bringing something back to its original state. One of the most important lessons I learned was the importance of self-worth. “Neither I nor your mother, nor anyone else can determine your worth, that is up to you”, is an expression my father often repeated.

My exhibition follows a different direction to many others as I wanted a confined area within which to expose myself. Not literally, but emotionally. It is a more comforting space, making it easier to share with others, as I am a quiet and careful person when it comes to sharing emotions and personal details. It follows the design of a common cubicle. Creating this feeling of safety. Which is exactly what my memories create for me. I wanted people to enter my exhibition as if they entered my mind. Firstly, seeing my face sculpted in such a way that everyone can bring their eyes to see through mine, to truly visualize the importance of these memories for me. The face has not been altered, painted or glazed because I want this to represent the honesty of my perspective, that they reveal the truth. The most important piece is the second depiction of my face. In the centre of my exhibition. Sprouting a tree from my temple, representing the growth of my thoughts, knowledge, and in this case my emotions. The branches consume and connect my artworks taking you to each individual piece which has its own story and contribution; to that which makes up Christopher Brenninkmeijer. Representing these pieces as memories and experiences taken from mind and soul. Once this is understood I have no further instructions for you. All that I ask is that you take me in, not through judgment but through understanding. Do not see what I tell you too but listen to what the pieces say to you. Allow them to unlock memories of your growth and bring back images of happiness from your past.

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