Cory O’Brien Borkowski, a native of Milwaukee, WI, is a contemporary visual artist currently based in Omaha, NE. She draws inspiration from the natural forms found in topographical maps; transforming these patterns into abstract, wearable art. Borkowski dissects and reinterprets these shapes to emphasize the preciousness of our environment and the importance of our relationship with it. Much of her work reflects a personal connection to places she has experienced or highlights areas that are in need of conservation.
Cory's work utilizes a culmination of techniques that span across digital fabrication and design, traditional metal fabrication, and industrial processes. She specializes in combining powder coat with vitreous enameling techniques to create fantastical, yet durable, wearable art. She takes the best of all worlds to create a body of work that transforms the perspective of what traditional jewelry could be.
Cory O’Brien Borkowski graduated with her Bachelor of Fine Arts in Jewelry and Metals with a certificate in Digital Fabrication and Design from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. Borkowski has worked as an independent goldsmith for 9 years, taught community art classes for UW-Milwaukee, taught private visual art lessons, given art lectures, and curated major events. After completing her artist in residency at Var Gallery and Studios, she has curated a scholarship and internship program for emerging artists at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee through her past companies; such as Kessler's Diamonds and Forever Companies.
Borkowski currently works as a merchandiser assistant, a freelance writer, and a Goldsmith at the Goldsmith/Silversmith in Omaha, Nebraska. She currently participates in a variety of community art events, collaborative projects and exhibitions.
Need a visiting artist? Send an email to coryobrienart@gmail.com to discuss workshops or visiting artist opportunities.