Dan Brobander

American, 1933 - 2011

BiographyBorn Daniel F. Brobander, in Salem, Ohio, Dan became one of the most influential and popular painters in New York. Dan hails from an area known for producing other famous artists such as Charles Burchfield and Andy Warhol. Dan Brobander believed that art did not belong to any one person; art was to be shared with all and that every interpretation was correct. "Each person sees what they themselves imagine and there can never be anything wrong about that." On this site, you will be able to view the span of Dan's journey through his paintings and even purchase prints so that his work may be shared as he had always wanted. Proceeds will be used to establish a scholarship fund in Dan's name to encourage the artistic vision of others. Dan was always known as a kind and gentle man; we hope to continue his giving nature.

Throughout Dan Brobander's life, he always fought against incredible odds. In 1933, Dan was born in the rural town of Salem, Ohio. Diagnosed with cerebral palsy at birth, he was not expected to live. Being very shy in his early years, Dan sought companionship through books, eventually amassing a collection of over 2,000 volumes and becoming quite fond of Russian literature. In his teenage years, Dan quickly developed a natural artistic talent that he later pursued at the famous School of the Art Institute of Chicago in 1953. He excelled at abstract expressionism, taking delight in the eccentricities of the Masters such as Dali, van Gogh, and Cézanne. Dan went on to continue his vision, traveling across the country and finally settling in New York where he opened several studios. In 1975, he met and married his wife, Phyllis Sira, an accomplished interior designer.

Over his lifetime, Dan created hundreds of works ranging from oil crayon sketches, latex enamel on masonite, and large scale acrylics on canvas. Dan rarely spoke of his condition wanting to be known only for being an artist. He was awarded the Adolph Gottlieb Foundation Grant in 1987, a continuation grant in 1988, and worked for several years with the Cultural Council Foundation. Dan completed work for the New York Foundation for the Arts and acted as an instructor for the Montclair Art Museum. One of his mural projects on display in Independence School at Independence Plaza, New York City, was unfortunately condemned after the 9/11 attack on the World Trade Center.

Shortly thereafter, Dan Brobander's condition became an increasing hindrance, most likely due to the inhalation of dust and debris from the tragedy of September 11. He continued his work to the best of his ability, continuing to draw in his sketch book when no longer able to paint. On February 13, 2011, Dan Brobander left us. When asked how he was doing, Dan always replied, "I'm doing great...I just need a new body." Those of us closest to him know that he finally got his wish and is probably wondering what the rest of us are making such a fuss over...

On the Gallery page, hopefully, you will understand what we are making "such a fuss over." Please enjoy Dan's creations and thank you in advance for your compassion and contribution to continuing Dan Brobander's legacy.
http://www.about.danbrobanderart.com/

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