r
I am loving this painting for the unexpected red (oil stick I picked up in Paris). I like the vibration that the red gives off, as well as the feeling of isolation in a landscape where he could so easily merge without identity. Merging is fine, but standing out and making a difference, claiming your space, is better. We only have one life. Make it count!
A lot going on in the studio. Several paintings in various stages of completion, juggling upcoming shows, arranging shipping and all the other activities involved in running a studio. It’s all a blast, with the creative part the best. I like to try new things – color, pose, emotion, type of paint, collage, and more. I think it’s important to get out of one’s comfort zone and break lose. Anything goes. Anything is possible. What if?
This exciting solo exhibit features many of my newest abstract figurative paintings. Like all of my artwork, it explores the blur between reality and the imagined, depicting emotions and feelings.
The title Naked to the Bone is particularly apt because it comes from one of my favorite poems by Pacific Northwest poet Theodore Roethke, much celebrated in the 1950s and 1960s. The poem “Open House” expresses the emotion of having your innermost feelings on show – I think it has particular relevance for this special exhibition:
“My secrets cry aloud…I’m naked to the bone”
Am selecting pieces from the studio for my upcoming solo exhibit at d’Art Center, Norfolk, Virginia July 1 – 25, 2021. This newly completed painting, Roy 48×48 inches, may make the cut. I particularly like the way the black color grounds and strengthens the figure, making a powerful and compelling statement against the lush background. It epitomizes the rich relationship between ourselves and our surroundings, often at odds, yet inevitably part of one another.
Art Essex Gallery is currently featuring these two paintings above, James and Naranja, both 40×30 inches acrylic on canvas completed in 2021. Check out the gallery’s Invitational Exhibition available online through May 15 at http://www.artessex.com.
Juried by New York City art critic and art writer David Masello, the exhibition focuses on the unpredictable, the best and most exciting feature of a work of art. “Unpredictable” is a great word – the opposite of expected and boring. Can’t begin to tell you how that word has informed my art practice over the past years. I hope you enjoy these two vibrant and exciting pieces above from this exhibition. We all need to look at the world differently as life constantly evolves and changes. I think these two lively pieces reflect the unexpected from me.
To see more work, visit instagram at leslitnolanstudios, Calloway Fine Art & Consulting, and http://www.leslienolan.com
Love these bold and colorful faces I just completed. They’re fun and a true celebration of color. They feel alive!
68″x64″ mixed media on canvas, titled Jenna, in the studio. Bigger is definitely better and more fun. This charming, clever gal makes a terrific addition to any space, forming a witty backdrop to conversation and creativity. Contact the artist for purchase.
Washington DC Artist Leslie Nolan Gerard, 40″x30″
I like the way this painting tackles the feeling of a man perfectly adapted to his surroundings, fully at ease and intent on his business, dealing with whatever needs to be accomplished despite or because of the weather. It exemplifies the spirit of individuals who are confident and capable — self-actualized. Qualities I greatly admire.
Chris, 48×36 inches painting on canvas by Washington DC artist Leslie Nolan
Just completed this fun painting. I love the feeling of it. The model exudes confidence and has the aura of a risk taker who can be relied upon without fail. Part of my new Arctic series, this artwork captures the dichotomy between isolation and camaraderie, which is also the essence of adventure in the North, and of being at ease in one’s surroundings.
Sylvie, 48×36 painting on canvas by Leslie Nolan, Washington, DC artist
Proud to display Sylvie, above, in the studio after this summer’s exhibition at CATO Institute’s “Freedom: Art as the Messenger” in Washington, DC. Bold, stark, and arresting, Sylvie commands attention in a thoughtful way, open to many and varied interpretation. While minimal in execution, it’s packed with potential in terms of content. It looks great on any wall. Contact me for purchase. Cheers
