Brigitte Bullen is an artist, ceramicist and sculptor based in Sydney.
Her journey as an artist took a significant turn when she experienced a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) at the age of 39. The injury led to the rehabilitation of the right side of her body, making it impossible for her to continue her career as a Psychologist. However, this life-altering event opened the door for her to pursue her passion for sculpting with clay.
Despite the challenges posed by her brain injury, Brigitte embraced her unique situation and found unconventional approaches to working with clay.
As a result, her art became an abstract reflection of how she feels in her body. Her unconventional techniques and methods set her work apart from traditional clay sculptures, making her pieces stand out as distinctive and expressive representations of her emotions.
Cracked in the Coconut Clay
The name of Brigitte’s studio is ‘Cracked in the Coconut Clay,’ which encapsulates the essence of her artistic journey and her need to find humour. It reflects the transformation she experienced after her injury, comparing her life to having two versions, and how she now cherishes the second version, where she gets to immerse herself fully in clay sculpting.
Despite the limitations brought on by her injury, Brigitte's commitment to her passion for art and her dedication to exploring unconventional techniques have allowed her to create exceptional and emotionally evocative sculptures.
Her story serves as an inspiration to others, showcasing the transformative power of art and the resilience of the human spirit.