Brendan Forrest

Visual ArtsMusic

Dec 4

Brendan Forrest is an artist whose journey from Chicago’s urban arts scene to the rugged beauty of Southwest Colorado has shaped his dual passion for music and painting. Originally trained in fine arts during high school under the late Sophia Pichinos, Brendan was one of only five students to complete the Art IV program. His talents were first publicly recognized at 13, debuting in a exhibition that marked the beginning of his lifelong creative path. He revisited painting with newfound passion in 2020, drawing on pandemic-inspired commissions to produce evocative portraits and architectural watercolors that re-established his visual arts voice.

Currently, Brendan’s work captures the essence of Colorado’s San Miguel County through portraiture and landscape painting, drawing parallels between his artistic growth and his journey as a musician. Known in the Americana music world for his mastery of acoustic guitar and songwriting, Brendan’s artistic influences span Chicago’s blues, Celtic music, folk, and 70s rock, with discoveries in jazz, bluegrass, and world music. This varied background permeates his visual art, which reflects a storyteller’s perspective and an eye for detail and movement, rooted in both his urban origins and rural inspirations. Brendan’s work continues to resonate with fans of both his art and music as he carves out a distinct, multifaceted creative legacy.

Featured at The Heart of Winter Market, Brendan’s album, Back to Bodhi, is available as a limited edition vinyl. This nine-track collection showcases his soulful Americana style and includes standout collaborations, like "Grown Child" featuring Sam Trump. Packaged in a deluxe gatefold jacket with captivating artwork by Javier Piñon (Girl With Hummingbird), it’s a piece as visually striking as it is musically rich.

Vinyl Tracklist:
Side A