Brian R. Hibbard is a Milwaukee-based artist working at the intersection of illustration, large-scale painting, and whatever he just found in a Dumpster behind a historic building. His work aims to spark meaningful conversations, awkward silences, and at least one “Is this supposed to be ironic?” per exhibition.

Brian’s creative process is fueled by a potent blend of caffeine, intuition, and a firm belief that drywall is an underrated artistic medium. He often incorporates scavenged wood, reclaimed house paint, and semi-mystical construction materials into his work—creating pieces that challenge fine art norms while also possibly supporting load-bearing walls. He refers to these mixed media pieces as “Existential Wood Glue.”

Infused with a curious imagination and a sense of humor that's one part Midwestern charm, one part cosmic prank, Brian’s art invites viewers to question what they’re seeing, why it’s staring back at them, and whether that face in the painting is actually their uncle Gary.

He considers a piece successful if it sparks a conversation, reorients someone’s worldview, or makes a gallery intern say “huh” out loud. He’s not afraid to blur the lines between high art and low-slung scaffolding. If it sticks, drips, glows, or rattles—he’s probably tried it.