Rachel Brainerd

My work provides the opportunity for viewers to consider their relationship with the ‘others’ of society. I create wearable, metal forms that discuss the psychological effects of Post Traumatic Stress Injury (PTS) found among displaced persons due to their flight and temporary living conditions. I recognize my position of privilege, and utilize the resources I have to highlight the lack of resources and oppression these individuals face. My pieces challenge those with economic privilege to recognize the pain of others, while simultaneously validating the refugees’ experiences of suffering. The literary descriptions I pair with my jewelry are a call to action: rousing individuals to take responsibility for their role in social transformation. I translate the inequalities of our society into tactile, wearable jewelry that offers insight into the harsh realities of physical and psychological survival in exile.

I delight in constructing intricate works of metal with various movable hinged and swiveling mechanisms that capture the intrigue of the wearer. As one is drawn to interact with these pieces, they become engaged in the conceptual matter that relays the traumas of refugees. I integrate mixed media with the metal fabrications, incorporating transparent resin casts of common blue tarpaulin within the jewelry to reference the temporary building materials often used to construct refugee camps. My metal works are displayed upon ceramic forms that mimic the texture of shredded tarpaulin sheets to present a united body of work. By altering the refined metal surfaces with textures, patinas, and alternative materials, the object resides in a worn, accessible context that invites the wearer’s intimate connection rather than reverent distance.

Inescapable Past - Intrusive Memory 2020. Copper, brass, liver of sulfur, resin, tarpaulin, laser print ink, 4 x 4 x 2 in. (left)

Ruptured Shelter 2020. Copper, liver of sulfur, WD40 18 x 3 x 3 in. (right)

Catching Dreams of Refugees - Sleep Disturbance 2020. Copper, tarpaulin, magnet filament, resin, fire 16 x 4 x 1 in. (center)