Beauty can be both resplendent and macabre. I see the goodness of the world, but I also see the darkness. Tragedy and beauty are complimentary enigmas. I hearken back to the Gothic and Italian Renaissance eras of art history for my creations. In some of my paintings, I create works inspired by the tiny pages of illuminated manuscripts on a large scale. Other pieces evoke the world of symbolism and the subconscious. Most of my works are painted with oil with many glazes of color, and some incorporate gold leaf in the background. I do a little planning, but the vast majority of my paintings are improvised and made up on the spot. Sometimes my best ideas occur when there is little preparation, coming from deep within my subconscious. The image that appears in my head is slowly transferred to the canvas. I create works that are multi-layered and abstract in meaning, though their appearances are highly detailed and representational. Hidden meanings adorn my pieces like jewels. I do not merely emulate art of past eras – I recreate it as something new, modern, and as an expression of my soul.

Charlotte Brindley is a native of Nashville, Tennessee, and recently moved to the Knoxville area. She received her B.A. in Art History in 2015, and M.A. in Folk Studies/Historic Preservation in 2017, both from Western Kentucky University. A love for art, history, architecture, and cultural heritage prompted Charlotte to pursue her multiple degrees. She has worked at museums such as the Kentucky Museum in Bowling Green, the Hermitage in Nashville, and Rose Center Council for the Arts in Morristown.
Brindley’s art is inspired by various periods in history, especially the Italian Renaissance and the Gothic illuminated manuscripts of Medieval Europe. She enjoys creating high detailed oil paintings with layers of jewel tones.
Brindley maintains a studio in Hamblen County and lives with her husband, Joel, and cat, Emerald.