Description:
A book of poetry by Robert Brennan
Brief description: While continuing his work as a painter and constructivist, Robert Brennan shares his observations of the world through the language of poetry. Beginning with simple word sketches from his deck in rural Connecticut and sail-aways along coastal New England, he has turned his eye in many directions, from the sights and sounds of the landscape and the sea, to observations of the inner life of souls trying to navigate a world full of wonder, mystery, tragedy, and joy. His words make note of a world he sees and imagines, often in the rich imagery that binds his love of the visual and the written form. Brennan found that with words, he could expand his range of personal expression, at times in combination with his artwork. For more than twenty years, Brennan, a prolific, award-winning freelance painter, served as a professor of art at the University of Bridgeport and art department chair for ten years. He also taught drawing at the Silvermine School of Art, New Canaan, CT and served as the K-12 art coordinator for the Darien School System. He received his BS at Southern Connecticut State University and his MA at Columbia University, where he also pursued doctoral level studies at Columbia Teachers College, majoring in Painting and Printmaking.Brennan maintains his studio in Easton, Connecticut, where he lives with his wife Patricia. Brennan's artwork can be viewed on his website, therestlesseye.com. Google him at artist Robert Brennan. To preview an exhibition of his abstract paintings and constructions, search on youtube Abstract Art Variations by Robert Brennan.
Review Quotes:
Robert Brennan's poetry has an uncanny way of creating unique and fascinating images in my mind; images that I would have never envisioned otherwise. He has an ability to take the ordinary and present it in a manner that makes it extraordinary. His poems weave together sublime, insightful, and thought-provoking moments in time that leave you wanting more.
--Bill Glass
Nationally recognized award-winning photographer and visual artist
Connecticut Educational Leader of the Year awardee
Press Photographer of The Newtown Bee
Musician
I have been enjoying Bob Brennan's poetry for a number of years and am constantly amazed by the depth and variety and insight in them. they range from hilariously funny to serious to wistful. He writes of man's brutality and destruction of this planet, of the beauty of nature, of dreams. He writes of aging with humor and acceptance. He advises us to be better while accepting that we are flawed. The poems have brilliance and insightfulness, always inspiring thought, surprise, and joy. Bob Brennan is a wonderful writer, and I am grateful to him for sharing his gift with me.
--Susan Reinhart
Professor of Fine Arts
Robert Brennan paints pictures in his poems as he does in his artwork. He takes everyday things and events, using his words to create a visual portrait. His poems give us wisdom, teaching us sweet and sad lessons which provide us with hope in humanity. What a pleasant afternoon read!
--Dr. Joanne Kant
President Easton Arts Council
When I read Robert Brennan's poems, I think of them as puzzles. As I read them over, I realize there is more than one meaning. There always seems to be a definite sense of duality.
--Kerry Breglia
Real Estate Agent