Meet Squire Broel | A Maker of Things

We had the good fortune of connecting with Squire Broel and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Squire, how do you define success?
Defining success can be a daunting endeavor–especially so when popular culture and media often elevate material wealth and fame as the ultimate measures of success. As an artist–intentionally living and working in a rural community–I’ve had to grapple with defining what success is to me personally.

Fortunately I have a strong network of friends, colleagues and mentors that I can talk with honestly. Ultimately my definition of success fluctuates somewhat and relies less on milestones of “marketplace” achievements and more on loosely structured goals that align with closely held values and personal growth. For me, defining my success is deeply personal.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
The professional development of my artwork has been an ongoing endeavor for over thirty years. But I have been exploring my creativity since early childhood and studied visual art and art history during my university years.

My artwork is an expression of my experiences as well as an extension of my curiosity about materials and traditional craftsmanship. Through my paintings and sculptures I explore ideas that feel deeply personal, though I recognize many of those same ideas are also universal: the cycles of life, love and longing, frenetic activity and stillness, engagement and withdrawal from nature.

There have been times in my career when I have felt the urge to try and think more about the marketplace than sticking to my own path. Oh how futile those attempts were – and unfulfilling too. I hope that what is recognizable in my art is that it is unique to my hand and expresses intentionality, rigor and an overall love for the process of making art.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I definitely love to wander.

While strolling I’m always looking for unique spots: tucked away alcoves, unique landscape features, bustling cafes, fun neighborhoods. There are so many place I love to visit and revisit. I think I’d be remiss if I simply gave a simple little itinerary without being there walking along, experiencing the whole mix in the moment.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I am where I am today because of the love and support of my family and dear friends who continue to encourge me as I plod along on this journey. Those closest to me help me recognize myself more clearly. How valuable it is to have people in my life that I can trust; people who tell me the truth and challenge me to be the best version of myself.

Website: Squire Broel https://www.squirebroel.com

Instagram: @squirebroel. https://www.instagram.com/squirebroel?igsh=NnJhcXpsYjI4MXQ3&utm_source=qr

Linkedin: Squire Broel http://linkedin.com/in/squire-broel-27070b4a

Facebook: Squire Broel https://www.facebook.com/profile.php/?id=42903381&name=xhp_nt__fb__action__open_user

Image Credits
Photo Credit: Greg Lehman Photo Credit: J. Matthew McKern Photo Credit: Broel Studio, Inc. Photo Credit: Megan Swann Refract 2021/photo courtesy of Visit Seattle