Britt Bass Turner is Brightening Up Atlanta
Buckhead-based painter Britt Bass Turner, the unrepentant queen of bright colors and big smiles, is inspiring Atlantans with her amazing (and attainable) work, hands-on classes and inviting new studio space.
Britt Bass Turner is a name you may already know. Her abstract paintings pepper the walls of some of the Southeast’s hippest homes and businesses. Her new Buckhead studio, called STUDIO STUDIO, serves as base camp, where she not only paints the colorful confections she’s become so lauded for, but she also hosts trunk shows and classes for aspiring and amateur artists.
During her time as an undergrad at the University of Georgia, Britt made the decision to work toward painting professionally. Like so many young entrepreneurs, she worked part-time, lived with family, and gave up fancy dinners and new duds as she diligently put in her time. She gave herself two years to see if this was the path she wanted to pursue. And after that self-imposed time limit, the answer was absolutely! This is where she wanted to steer her life’s work. She built her now-flourishing company into a full-time gig, and now, three years later, business is booming.
Bass is dead set on paying forward her good fortune via great relationships. She and her husband Render (who has been her best friend since they were just 11 years old) are cornerstones of the city’s vibrant, young, creative community, actively involved in educating and inspiring young entrepreneurs. The unpretentious nature of her art translates in person, and she’s quick to let you know she doesn’t take herself too seriously. More than anything, Bass wants to paint something people like … something that makes them smile.
Her price of entry doesn’t alienate, either. On offer at her studio, exhibitions and trunk shows are everything from small prints and iPhone cases to large original works, allowing her access to both new and established collectors — ones who love vibrant color, playful patterns and Bass’ voracious commitment to being true to self.
And if you’re interested in trying your own hand at a new medium, consider trying a Studio Sesh, either at the studio or on your own with her new Studio Sesh in a Box option. The next Studio Sesh takes place Saturday, May 23, at STUDIO STUDIO, located at 22B E. Andrews Drive NW, Atlanta. Cost is $325 and includes all materials. Up to 12 participants can enjoy snacks and cocktails, review basic color theory, partake in studio style warmup, work on a 20×20-inch piece and take home a goody bag filled with the items used and a Britt Bass Turner painting. (That’s a pretty cool goody bag!)
Cheat Sheet:
Name: Britt Bass Turner
Neighborhood: Buckhead
Education: Bachelor of Fine Arts, University of Georgia
Currently inspired by: Caitlin McGauley Wallpaper
Currently working on: Pattern design
Studio location: STUDIO STUDIO, 22B E. Andrews Drive NW, Atlanta
Studio open to public: Yes! But make an appointment, so we can be sure we’re there to greet you.
Next public event: Spring art show at Steve McKenzie’s on March 26
When I work, I like to listen to: Right now, The New Basement Tapes
I look up to: Hilary Maloney, the amazing creative behind Parlore
An emerging talent who I’m really excited about right now is: Heather Day
To learn more about Britt Bass Turner, check out her work or sign up for a Studio Sesh, check her out online at brittbass.com.
