Faith, Fraud, and Fear: Bill Brimm
AN AMERICAN PORTRAIT, 2022. Plywood, laser cut wood rifles, shooting targets. 24" x 20
Feb 7 – Feb 28 | Opening Reception February 7, 1pm–9pm
COOP is pleased to present Faith, Fraud, and Fear by Bill Brimm. Faith, Fraud, and Fear delves into the complex and troubling themes of religion, greed, and governmental abuse. Social ills prevalent in contemporary society are confronted through a combination of assemblages, digital still lifes, and music-inspired digital collages. The use of rat traps reflects a sense of entrapment many of us feel, be it political, social, or personal. Brimm views this exhibition as fear hanging on the walls.
The anchor of this show is a seven-foot-tall wooden cross made of 34 rat traps. This piece reflects the overarching messages of entrapment and suffering, symbolizing the painful intersections of faith and exploitation.
Other themes Brimm explores include abortion, global warming, bigotry, and gun violence. This work offers a raw and evocative response to issues impacting the country and individuals alike. While his work often expresses anger or sadness, it is tempered with a sense of humor and hope. Viewers are invited to confront uncomfortable truths and reflect on the implications of oppression in their lives and communities.
This will be Brimm’s first exhibition at COOP but returning solo exhibition in Nashville. The artist will be present at the artist walkthrough on February 7th at 5pm and throughout the opening.
More about the Artist
Bill Brimm was born and raised in Nashville, Tennessee, raised in a conservative Southern Baptist family. He found solace not in what the preacher had to say but in the church's colorful, vibrant stained glass windows. While growing up, he witnessed the threat of the Cold War, the Civil Rights Movement, and the Vietnam War. These events have had a significant impact on his life and themes in his art. After earning a Bachelor of Science in Art from Middle Tennessee State University, Brimm co-owned Emmanuel Stained Glass Studio, Inc. for 37 years where he spent much of his career designing and producing commissioned stained glass works for churches, blending traditional techniques with his evolving artistic vision. During those years, he developed his art practice and exhibited work in the Nashvi le art scene, including local colectives and commercial galeries. He owned Bryant Galery in East Nashvi le from 2009 to 2013. Since retirement from stained glass in 2019, Brimm has worked at his East Nashvi le home studio. In recent years, the rise of hate and intolerance, often supported by those claiming religious authority, has continued to shape his work. He resides with his partner, Andrew, and their two dogs, Sookie and Paco.