Corey Helford Gallery presents Sugar & Silence, an exhibition of new works by Los Angeles-based artist Brandi Milne. Sugar & Silence marks the first solo show of Milne's career, and for the exhibition, the artist explores her personal childhood fascination with sweets, transforming the gallery into a playful candyland. The carefree feel of giant sugar-coated treats, strawberries, cherries and snow cones juxtapose with longing figures of graceful, delicate nymphs. For Milne, Sugar & Silence is a turning point as she makes the transition from illustrations to paintings. The exhibition features 35 new works including acrylic on wood panel paintings, watercolor and ink illustrations, and a collection of hand-sewn dolls.

Photos and words courtesy of the gallery

"Almost There"

"For You"

"Let's Eat Cake"

"Maggie's Gifts"

"Sweets"

"The Party's Spoiled"

"Twins Love It Too"

Lola & Nathan Spoor

Van Arno, Craola, Jason Maloney, Brandi Milne, Kukula and Chris Anthony

Paul Chatem

Bruce Helford with actress Masiela Lucha

Brandi Milne with collector, Sybil Martinez

Buff Monster & Remy

Gallery guests enjoy cotton candy

Corey Helford Gallery's Richard Scarry and Bruna

Born and raised in Anaheim, California, Brandi Milne was influenced by the sights and sounds of the 1970's, including 8-track tapes and paisley dresses. Growing up, her interests turned to the Far East, studying its fashions and cultures. Milne's artwork represents a melding of these two very different genres while embracing beauty and aesthetic over message and propaganda. Milne has shown at numerous galleries in Southern California including CoproNason, Thinkspace, Gallery 1988, and La Luz de Jesus. For more information about the artist, please visit www.brandimilne.com

Upstairs in the loft, guest artist Jeremiah Ketner will present a series of new paintings that complement the candyland theme. Some say the Chicago-based artist adds sugar to his paint when he creates his assemblages of muted tones, non-dimensional forms, flower like shapes, and charming little creatures. He draws inspiration from Japanese aesthetics, packaging design, magazine ads and urban graffiti and has exhibited in group shows in Los Angeles, New York, Seattle, Houston, and Detroit. For more information about the artist, please visit smallandround.com. The reception for Sugar and Silence took place on Saturday, December 8 from 7 to 10pm. The exhibition will be on view until December 29.