Nicole Wakeman
www.nicolewakeman.com
Each of us comes to art differently: to create, appreciate or both. I’d been an appreciator for decades, while yearning to create. Just a simple, sincere bit of encouragement pushed me to my first, adult painting class and I have not looked back.
The work that captures me is based on the visual energy of layered color interacting with texture, beckoning the viewer to come closer and deconstruct. How many times have I been asked to “please step back” from a piece by gallery or museum staff? I most love art that forces you to linger and discover. I strive to create pieces that draw the viewer in for a good, long stay. My inspirations include many greats as Diebenkorn, Hoffmann and Gaudi.
Many painters say they ‘lose time’ in their art and my experience of this is constant. Painting truly offers a transformation into a new way of perceiving our environment, supporting my observations and work to inform each other.
The creation of art is like driving at night, you often cannot see your destination, but your headlights will get you there; Trust the Process. There is no greater excitement than creating that which you never knew you could.
I’ve had the privilege to be raised by extremely creative parents, who’ve taken their talents of painting, writing, and filmmaking, to professional, acclaimed levels. This environment of constant creativity nourishes the soul and has been invaluable.
Jubilee, 2011
Medium: Acrylic and Mixed Media on Canvas
Size: 36" x 36"