Bree Chapin

Bree Chapin is a figurative painter and visual artist based between the lively cities of New York City and Lisbon, Portugal.

Channeling a frequency she describes as “ambient anxiety”, Bree’s work principally explores themes of technology, paranoia, feminism, and political unrest. She brings symbol-steeped visions to life with an electrified color palette and expressive brushwork that have become her signature.

I’ve often said “I paint to keep from screaming.” My work is rooted in themes of war and power, paranoia and surveillance, time and memory.

Shaped by an early interest in technology and the once-bright promises of youth, I explore an imagined world trapped between the unlearned lessons of the past and shadowy passages of an uncertain future.

Over years of experimentation I have developed a personal vocabulary of symbols and visual metaphors rendered in a vivid, highly-saturated palette. I use loose layers of color and brushwork to capture a feeling of vertigo and delirium.

Most of my artwork can accurately be described as political in nature—whether explicitly or implied.

2013

Bree began her artistic career on the Lower East Side in 2013 as a member of the influential ConArtist Collective. Her artwork has been exhibited regularly for over a decade in New York City and beyond including several solo exhibitions and group showcases.

2021

In 2021, Bree co-founded the New York Underground Art League in collaboration with UPMagazine, which continues as a monthly live urban art event on the LES.

2023

In 2023 Bree moved her main practice across the Atlantic from East Harlem to Lisbon. She balances her time between these two cities, drawing inspiration from the rhythm of the two vibrant capitals.