In Episode 39 of Inside the Frame Podcast, Frame Center’s own Dina Brennan takes us behind the scenes of her creative life and professional journey. A longtime member of the Frame Center team and a practicing artist, Dina shares how her passion for color, texture, and storytelling through abstract art culminated in her recent solo exhibition at the James Library & Center for the Arts.
A Year of Work, a Lifetime of Inspiration
Dina’s exhibition, titled “Color Noise,” features nearly 70 works created over a year. Using nontraditional tools like palette knives, putty scrapers, and even parchment paper and bubble wrap, Dina layers and scrapes paint to reveal bold textures, blended colors, and horizon-like lines, many inspired by nature and her time spent walking the shores of Brewster, Quincy, and Northern California.
Her process is spontaneous and emotional, often driven by what she calls “color stories,” built from color combinations found in nature, television, or even clothing. Each piece is titled with a lyric or phrase that creates a layer of curiosity and connection for the viewer. “I want people to look at the piece and feel something, see something different every time,” Dina says.
The James Library Show: Beyond the Opening Night
Dina’s opening night at the James Library drew an enthusiastic crowd, with many friends, family, clients, and Frame Center regulars turning out despite rainy weather. But she’s not stopping there. Dina is returning to the gallery on select Fridays to offer visitors a more intimate look at her process, tools, and inspirations. “I want people to see how it’s done, to talk about it,” she shares. “The show is the culmination of so much work. I want to sit with it, reflect on it, and celebrate it.”
The Artist at Frame Center
With 26 years of experience at Frame Center, Dina has helped shape the gallery’s look and feel while advising numerous artists and customers on framing and presentation. Her eye for detail, combined with her background in illustration and fashion drawing, makes her uniquely attuned to aesthetics, balance, and visual storytelling.
From designing gallery installations for Hanover Days to curating work from regional artists, Dina plays a vital role in creating a space that reflects and uplifts the South Shore art community. Her work is a living example of what Frame Center strives to offer—a space where creativity is nurtured and local art is celebrated.
What’s Next
Dina’s artwork can be seen at the James Library through June 14 and will continue to appear in local art shows and Frame Center’s rotating gallery space.
Visit Frame Center in Hanover to view current exhibitions, explore custom framing options, and connect with our vibrant network of local artists. Whether you’re a collector, creator, or curious visitor, Frame Center is proud to be a place where art lives.
