Bryn McConnell

Bryn McConnell is a visual artist whose work spans mixed-media collage, textile creations, and abstract painting, often incorporating and transforming found objects. With a keen eye for pattern recognition and material composition, Bryn constructs visually layered artwork that weaves relationships between seemingly disparate elements. Her meticulous methods reveal deep engagement with patience, observation, and interconnection with the intention of inspiring conversations about our shared human experiences. Bryn holds a degree in Architecture and Art from Tulane University and began her artistic career in the culturally vibrant city of New Orleans, Louisiana. In 2025, Bryn relocated to Berlin, Germany, seeking to expand her practice through a broader international context and deepen her exploration of art as a vehicle of connection.

Process

My process begins with found objects. I primarily collect metal from the street, scrap material from construction sites, or off-cut yarn and fabric from weavers. I believe these recycled items are charged with an energy which gives me inspiration to create. When I try to shop at a store, I find the options too sterile and uninspiring. I will then weave or sew these materials into abstract collages, composing a story about how these items came to me. The process is meticulous and offers me the solace to get lost in the repetition.

Influences

I am obsessed with grids. When I walk through the city, I am constantly cataloging patterns like mathematical formulas. From cobblestones to masonry and fences, the grid structure becomes my landscape to impose my art upon. My desire to work with grids relates back to a lesson I learned in architecture school: The first step of a project is to identify your constraints. When I pull from an archive of recycled materials, the grid creates harmony among the many disparate elements. It also makes a stark contrast from order to disorder in my work. My family reminded me, I really liked graph paper as a child. It makes me think that the grid removes my fear of a blank canvas and is the framework I need to kickstart my imagination.

Challenges

To move past a creative block, I seek perspective. Once I have reached the end of a project or I find myself in need of new inspiration, I have learned the best thing I can do for myself is travel. No matter how long or how short the journey, a break from routine tends to shake loose some new ideas. In June of 2025, I moved to Berlin, Germany, from the United States. I embarked with the goal to challenge myself to grow as an artist and as an individual. Venturing outside my comfort zone has enabled me to think more critically about my practice and view my art within a broader context.

Reflection

 The most fulfilling moment for me as an artist is to see my work resonate with a viewer. Success doesn’t mean something sold, but rather that my work is out in the world and is being appreciated by someone. I would rather have one person truly love my artwork than get 1000+ split-second views. At the end of the day, creating art is intrinsically personal, and it is up to every artist to set goals for themselves but also give themselves the time and grace for the right opportunities to come along.