Bare Bones Artistry

Brandon Sands, Bachelor of Arts (Not that Kind)Commissioned Sculptor + Event Bartender + Original Art for Sale"Love you to death" -B 💀

MY Story

Hi! I'm Brandon, a behavior scientist. My formal education is in the study of psychology and political science (BA, Vanderbilt University; 2017), NOT the creative arts, and NOT hospitality. I started making drinks and sculptures while rebuilding my life after a layoff from my drug research job.I was born in the Bahamas, raised near Nashville, and left my community to launch an addiction research career at Yale... 6 short months before the pandemic disrupted everything. I spent the next 2 years isolated in a strange place, navigating a career of studying addiction, pain, and PTSD remotely from my apartment. At the time, the outside world wasn't any more cheerful. I decided I needed a change but was unsure how.One day, to escape burnout, I wandered into an art store and bought a chunk of modeling clay and tools. Off I went, contented, hands too messy to scroll my feeds and sipping my poor first attempt at a margarita, no "vision" just joy.Some time later, finally done with pandemic isolation and making friends, yet freshly laid off from what was once a dream job, I found my dear friend and mentor, George Nista. Freshly retired from his career as a professional sculptor in Philadelphia, George recognized my fascination with his work and saw potential in my early efforts. He has invested much of his time and talent in helping me with my projects and I assist when I can with his; a treasured friendship and collaboration. I still visit him and his lovely wife, Ann, weekly for coffee, dinner, conversation, and perhaps art when there's time leftover.That same week I met George, I showed up for my first shift at Ordinary, the bar that's taught me all I know about bartending. For the last couple years, I've been working with clay and plaster by daylight, and working with liquor, ice, sugar, and citrus by candlelight.Since then, I've been exploring if what's left can be transformed into what feels right. Survival through artistic reinvention. Ironically, I've had more meaningful conversations about the issues I care about in this new phase of life than I ever did in academia. Life is funny like that. I came up with the name Bare Bones while throwing together a flyer for a house party where I planned to have my friends over and practice my newfound crafts while spending time with them. The rest I've figured out on the move. I still can't get enough, and I know the signs.Thanks for reading. Enjoy the ride.
Love you to death,
-B

The Process in Progress!

Here's a peek into my creative process!

Want to Support?

Yes! I'd gladly create a unique artwork, customize items, or make drinks for you and your guests to enjoy!Find me at Ordinary Wednesday-Saturday when I'm not at George's studio or visiting my favorite spots in New Haven!Let's talk!