Ari Brielle Edwards

2016, B.A., Interdisciplinary Art and Design Studies
Instagram: aribrielle_
Conduit Gallery | Texas Monthly | Glasstire
Website
2023, M.F.A. program in Studio Intermedia, University of Texas at Arlington

2022 Nasher Artist Grant Recipient: Ari Brielle Edwards is one of five awardees to receive a 2022 Nasher Artist Grant! The Nasher Sculpture Center's program provides annual financial support to North Texas artists through the distribution of grants that may be used to fund the purchasing of equipment and materials, travel or research, studio space, or artist-run curatorial projects. Each Nasher Artist Grant awardee will receive $2,000 to realize projects related to their practice.

"In a year when so many artists, like so many people around the country, face economic and political challenges, the Nasher is proud to offer support to the artistic community of North Texas," says Anna Smith, curator of education. "This year's awardees call attention to important voices, from the visionary to the domestic, and shine a light on marginalized communities. The jury is pleased to highlight this meaningful work and contribute to these artists' development and success."

After receiving a diagnosis of endometriosis, Edwards turned the focus of her art to explore how Black women often suffer from reproductive diseases at higher rates than their non-black counterparts due to generational trauma and documented inequities in the U.S. healthcare system, higher stress, and less access to healthy foods. Through photography, drawing, and painting, Edwards is processing her diagnosis and its implications while framing it within the broader context of health and wellness for Black women in this country. She will use her Nasher Artist Grant to fund an exhibition about the subject this fall in San Antonio. The series consists of self-portrait paintings, drawings of family photos, and photographs of her body after surgery printed on silk.