University of North Georgia (UNG) alumna Brittany Fanning was born in Florida but raised as a teenager in the golden city of Dahlonega. It was in a high school art course where she discovered a love of art and decided to pursue it as a career.
Fanning, '14, earned a Bachelor of Arts in studio art with a concentration in painting from UNG. She moved across the globe to teach English in Korea, living there for seven years. She taught for three years before transitioning into being a full-time artist.
"I finally started getting traction while I was there," Fanning said. "I had my first solo exhibition in March 2022."
She had an exhibition of her paintings on display at Guy Hepner in New York City in late 2022.
Some of Fanning's favorite artists include Hernan Bas, Andy Dixon and David Hockney. Fanning believes it's important to always look at other artists like her favorites and keep up with the art world. She said current students should remember they aren't isolated in Georgia. Fanning said they can do a lot by simply following artists that do similar work, as well as reading about how those artists got to where they are.
Ultimately, Fanning said, experience has been pivotal in her career.
"Your consistency is what makes the skills you acquire at UNG more proficient. In art school, you learn how to draw and paint realistically, but once you graduate you can take those skills and make it your own," the Los Angeles, California-based artist said. "I paint 10 hours a day, five days a week. If I was in college again, I would tell myself to do more art when I can and not to worry about not having a style. That comes later."
While at UNG, Fanning gained a lot of her confidence from professors who were encouraging and gave her advice outside of the classroom. The feedback helped her realize she could make a career from her passion.
"I still talk to them a lot," Fanning said. "If I can get criticism or advice, it's always helpful."
With several pieces going to London for a gallery collection and art fairs in Seoul, Fanning has a lot on her plate in 2023. Fanning has been asked to be in a group show with one of her idols, Andy Dixon. She has solo shows planned in Kyoto, Japan; Paris and Los Angeles, as well. Learn more about Fanning and her artwork by visiting her website.
