About | Mysite

POET. PAINTER. PERFORMER.

Eric Braman

(they/them)

ABOUT ME

Based in the Pacific Northwest, Midwest kid at heart.

I am a writer, theatre maker, and watercolor artist living in Springfield, Oregon. I was raised in Michigan, where a tenacity for niceties and a love of nature was born. Since coming out, my queer identity has pushed my art to explore themes of masculinity, mental health, and queer possibility. I am inspired by the dualities of myself and the communities I have called home.

Creative expressions has been a constant through my life.

I recall the antique desk in my childhood bedroom, coated in spilled paint and eraser bits, which served as my place of permission through childhood. It is where I found a love for writing, doodling, crafting, and dreaming. Those beginning days of scripting puppet shows for Sunday School and crafting up-cycled holiday gifts set me on the path of creative exploration I still tread today.

WHY I CREATE

Poetry, theatre, and storytelling build community.

Storytelling is one of the oldest artistic traditions on earth. When we write and share our stories we are engaging in the greatest legacy humankind has to offer. I am in regular awe of how often a poem or story I write finds meaning, connection, and importance in others. We are, all of us, holders of limitless truths. When we cultivate the courage to create and share we spark an opportunity for community to form. This is why I write, why I perform, and why I encourage others to as well.

Watercolor is a practice of permission.

I am someone who struggles with perfectionism and anxiety. I am drawn to watercolor as a practice in accepting mistakes and trusting intuition. For the most part, my painting process involves open exploration rather than pre-meditated design. As I allow the paper, water, and paint to guide me I find my inner critic quiets as my meditative flow takes over. What results is an abstract expression that prompts wonder, curiosity, and reflection.