
Studio of Washington DC Artist Leslie Nolan
Studio of Washington DC Artist Leslie Nolan
Serge, 30″x30″, by Washington, DC Artist Leslie M. Nolan
These newly completed paintings are now available at Georgetown’s Susan Calloway Fine Arts — 1643 Wisconsin Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20007. http://www.callowayart.com
This grouping of paintings features fresh jazzy figures that have the feel of society on the edge. With mostly vivid colors and painterly brush strokes, I’ve tried to maintain a blur between the real and imagined. They have a contemporary aesthetic that’s infused with emotional tension.
As always, ambiguity and ambivalence rule. All interpretations of these figures remain valid, possible, even probable. I prefer that my paintings address those things that do not lend themselves to easy description.
Selecting the right artwork can be tricky. It’s always a good idea to see it in a residential setting – a test for tone and style within a room. I personally like art that makes me think and provides a lively counterpoint to otherwise static elements of furniture. Some people prefer a more peaceful, languid feeling. Everyone has a different goal for their personal space.
Regardless of preference, trying something out in the room for size and impact makes sense. Whether stimulating or calming, a one of a kind, handmade work of art will elevate the area and make it special. If it doesn’t work, you can always return it to the gallery for another piece that meshes just right with your preferences and objectives.
Here, I’ve displayed some newish pieces at home before delivery to the gallery. Each makes a unique focal point, but I think they look good together, too.
Washington, DC Artist Leslie M. Nolan at SPECTRUM Miami Art Show with Gallery NK
By all accounts the SPECTRUM Miami Art Show this year was a great success for Gallery NK. Lots of interest, buyers and commentary by the many patrons/collectors who throng to Art Basel Miami Beach and its 20 satellite fairs during this special week. The Gallery staff did a great job hanging my wall – it looked amazing. It’s great to have a professional team taking care of everything.
Where Now 8 By Washington, DC Figurative Artist Leslie Nolan
See this dancing hipster of mine at the Athenaeum Invitational Exhibition through November 6. Generously sponsored by TTR/Sotheby’s International Realty, the show opens Sunday, September 25 with a reception from 4-6 and features Megan Beyer, Executive Director for the President’s Council on the Arts and Humanities, awarding prizes.
Twig Murray, Gallery Director of the Athenaeum, conceived and organized this event. She also scheduled a solo exhibit of my work there for August 2017. Looking forward to that…
This month marks Touchstone Gallery’s 40th year in existence here in Washington, DC. An incredible accomplishment given the ups and downs of the economy coupled with the fact that so many galleries have closed over the years. I am proud to have served as a co-owner and member from 2010 to 2014, on the Board of Directors and as two-term Vice President.
To celebrate this special anniversary, the gallery chose to invite former member artists to exhibit along with current members in a stunning show that brought out an all star cast of talented folks. A jam packed evening with the crowd spilling out onto the sidewalk, the gallery celebrated its longevity, innovation and resilience in great style. Lots of exciting artwork. Kudos to Touchstone…
Touchstone Gallery 40th Anniversary Exhibit
Open now through May 28 902 New York Avenue NW, Washington, DC
Going Yellow by Washington, DC Artist Leslie Nolan 30″x40″ acrylic on canvas
Want to just say a few words about the wonderful work of the Washington Project for the Arts, the premier arts organization of the nation’s capital. WPA sponsors workshops from art curators around the world to provide guidance and support to emerging and mid-career artists in this area. And, it sponsors curated art exhibits throughout the District, including at its brand new street level gallery location in North Shaw, a block from Howard University, at 2124 H St NW. It’s a significant contributor to the vibrant art scene of this area.
I was honored to participate in its biggest fund raising event, the Auction Gala, which took place a few weeks ago.
Dis Six by Washington, DC Contemporary Artist Leslie Nolan
Great news — My artwork will be heading to the Big Apple in April. Yes, New York City for the huge show Art Expo with Gallery NK. More on this exciting event as we get closer to spring.
Right now I’m getting used to the new studio space. There is nothing like a pristine clean space and an untouched white canvas to give an artist pause. It’s somewhat of a daunting prospect. New tarp on the floor, fresh plastic protecting recently drywalled areas, and the painting table formerly used to hold the computer is unmarked, too. I started slowly with a small painting for a show this May for The Arts Club of Washington, and that allowed me to go farther and really christen the studio this week with spilled and dripped paint from a larger canvas. The upshot — all feels back to normal and congenial to mark-making.