Denver Sister Cities International proudly highlights the incredible work of Anna Charney, a talented mural artist from Denver, Colorado. Brest, France, Denver's oldest sister city since 1948, has recently become a canvas for one of Anna's most ambitious projects. Anna's artistic journey in Brest began with her participation in the Mural Artist Exchange with the RiNo Art District in 2022, which paved the way for her return in the summer of 2024.
A Journey of Creativity and Cultural Exchange
In her latest venture, Anna Charney created a monumental mural, now the largest in Brest, measuring an impressive 300 square meters (6 meters by 50 meters). This stunning artwork adorns the back wall of the Rïnkla ice rink on rue de Savoie, a central location in the city. The mural, a vibrant explosion of colors and intricate designs, took about three weeks of meticulous work and over 400 spray paint cans to complete.
Anna's approach to mural painting is methodical and immersive. She begins by blocking out the entire canvas in color before adding details in multiple passes, allowing her to see how all the colors interact on a large scale. This process not only ensures a cohesive and dynamic final piece but also allows for adjustments and refinements as the mural progresses.
The Thrill of Creation
Reflecting on the experience, Anna shared her excitement and pride in the project. "These first few days on a wall are so thrilling," she remarked. "Letting the excitement of a new project sink in, dancing around, and absolutely blasting through so many cans of paint along the way. I am incredibly proud of this mural and will be sharing more photos and stories from the project soon!"
Anna's dedication to her craft and her ability to transform spaces through her art have left a lasting impression on Brest. Her work is not just a visual spectacle but a symbol of the enduring relationship between Denver and Brest.
Connecting Through Art
During her time in Brest, Anna also had the opportunity to meet with the Denver Sister Cities International Delegation at the Maritime Festival. This gathering, attended by city officials and community members, celebrated the strong ties between the two cities and highlighted the role of art in fostering international friendship and understanding.
In addition to her mural, Anna led an art workshop in mid-September 2022 with her colleague Mike Graves for 4th grade students at Javouhey middle school. This workshop, part of the Denver Sister Cities International Mural Artist Exchange, provided young students with a unique opportunity to engage with art and learn from professional artists.
A Global Artist
Anna Charney, a graduate of the Chicago School of Art, is known for her optical paintings and frescoes characterized by graphic patterns and dense details. Her work has been showcased across the United States and in countries such as Nicaragua and France. Her ability to blend cultural influences and her distinctive artistic style make her a true ambassador of Denver's vibrant art scene.
Looking Forward
As Anna Charney returns to the USA, we look forward to hearing more about her experiences and the impact of her work in Brest. Her mural stands as a testament to the power of art in building bridges between cultures and communities.
For more about Anna Charney's incredible journey and her latest mural in Brest, check out the article in the French newspaper Le Télégramme.
