We're really excited about this Rhody native turned Brooklyn based artist's upcoming event at Brown University's Cohen Gallery! Find out more about that, what inspires her work, and a few of her Ocean State favs.

Who: Giana Sacco, Designer, Explorer, Illustrator, and Creator of OCCIPITAL NYC

What: OCCIPITAL Pop Up at Brown University's Cohen Gallery

When: Thursday, September 22, 6:30 to 8:30pm

In July, I completed a mural that stands about 14' wide and 10' tall in the lobby of the Granoff Center for Creative Arts at Brown University. It is currently on view and can be seen during working hours of the building. On September 22, there will be a reception and pop up gallery celebrating the mural installation. That night, Occipital will be displayed at the Cohen Gallery in the Granoff Center. The gallery will be solely Occipital artwork, something I am very excited about!

Her Art & Inspiration

OCCIPITAL (ak-si-pe-tal) is the visual processing center of the brain. I wanted a strong title for my artwork. You can find updates about work in progress and more on Twitter & Instagram @occipitalnyc and www.occipitalnyc.com.

I find inspiration everywhere — museums, shadows or store windows I walk by. Lately I have been into the textures of the layered posters on the subway walls and the graffiti in my neighborhood. I also have phases of listening to certain types of music, which I believe comes out a lot in my work, in the lines of the figures and the silhouettes. If I'm not in a cafe, I usually like to draw by the water, either on the beach or sitting at the piers in NYC.  

A Few of Her Rhody Favs 

George's: Great seafood and right at the beach! Has a bar outside, so you can grab a cocktail and chill by the ocean. RI is, of course, known for their seafood, so I tend to hit up George's when friends from out of town visit.

Olga's Cup & Saucer: This is a lovely cafe in Providence. They have a variety of hot drinks and great sandwiches. I love sipping my cappuccino and having a snack on their cool mosaic table tops.

The Red Fez: There are tons of bars in Providence, but I would have to say this is my favorite spot. The bar snacks are unique and very good and their drinks are even better. If you stop in, the whiskey and bourbon cocktails are a must.

Photo Credits: Photos of Olga's by Ashley Farney. All other photos courtesy of Giana Sacco