I am interested in the tension between the definite and the amorphous; that place where a hard edge or line meets the saoft and yielding.

In both art and life I think this border between land and sky, sleep and waking, curiosity and certainty, is where we see the most clearly.

Working with molten wax and pigment I build up layers and textures then scrape the cooled paint back to reveal the hidden history of process and form. 

A bit about the weaving process: I create the images with photographs, drawings on paper, and digital tools. The weave structures and fibers differ from piece to piece. They are as significant as the image. I engineer each piece, focusing on the technical specifications, and prepare a digital file. Then I weave a test and I weave the piece. The images emerge from the cloth, line by line (weft by weft). Its magic.

My works on paper reflect the shapes and patterns I take from my environment around me.  Color and texture also play a large role in my compositions, particularly those from fabrics and tapestries.  Although I have been working many years primarily in water based paint, I have recently added printmaking to my art practice and find that printed images are a wonderful basis for mixed media works on paper. 

The surprise and discovery of how art materials join together in either wet or dry application on paper keeps me going from one series to the next.  I don't repeat compositions; every one is new.

I'm interested in combining different materials and elements to create or change an image, to elevate it or diminish its glow and power. In this work, I am exploring the myth of celebrity and beauty, of what is classic or sacred, I use photographs by Annie Leibovitz, classic paintings by Da Vinci or Lautrec, cut out pages of W or Vanity Fair magazines, old record covers, or poetry books as my essential elements of expression. I see their beauty and power, and I want to reinterpret, to enhance, or metamorphosize these powerful images.

City Series Art at Merch: Opening Reception: December 9: 6-10pm

My latest pieces will be displayed through April 4, 2012.
Most pieces are between $60-$100- perfect for you or gifts!
Visit my website starting November 25th for a sneak peek of art available.
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Details and different perspectives intrigue me. Nature, older buildings, and letters influence my work. Taking recognizable items and imagery, I enjoy altering original subject matter to make it more abstract. The end result is a piece that is presented in a new context.

Art has always been a part of my life, both as creator and in experiencing others’ works. Making art since I was a few years old, my first break came at age 6 when I received second place in my first coloring contest. I graduated with a degree in Architecture from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and find that an appreciation and love of art only enhances architecture, and the process of its design.

Over the past few years, I have been shifting between indoor and outside studios to build my sculptures. This transfer encouraged me to select a material that would withstand and interact with the environment. Combinations of copper, found metal, and wood have been the perfect solution. These constructions mimic shapes and patterns repeated in nature, becoming plant-animal hybrids.

They rely on natural elements such as wind, water, fire, urine and dirt for their patina. The latest assemblage of work focuses on longevity. Technically, they are never

For me to make art, I must be profoundly moved by an experience or thought. I share life stories through my work. My studio is my sanctuary to make art, free of outside influences and judgment of others. Being in a place that feels safe is important to me. My inner world is feminine; I select specific colors to evoke a feeling or luscious fabrics to create a veil, like a soft shield of protection. From that point, there is a pouring out of emotions where I expose my personal life’s journey. This vital process is the vehicle that helps to promote healing within and it is why I continue to make art.

Greg Nelson Art depicts ethereal California landscapes and intimate figures through multi-media paintings with a romantic vision of nature and a classical treatment of form. View my website at http://www.gregnelsonart.com