Naked to the Bone

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”

d”Art Center Norfolk, VA Solo Exhibition

Am selecting pieces from the studio for my upcoming solo exhibit at d’Art Center, Norfolk, Virginia July 1 – 25, 2021. This painting, “A Pulse Beyond 13,” 12×12 inches, may make the cut. I particularly like the way the black color dances around the square 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.

d”Art Center Norfolk, VA Solo Exhibition

Art Essex Gallery Invitational

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

New Work for Spring

Love these bold and colorful faces I just completed. They’re fun and a true celebration of color. They feel alive!

New Work in Studio

Image

IMG_20200211_21010539668″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.

Current Art Fair – Gerard

Gerard

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

Chris

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

sylvieindinginroom

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

Raul

Raul

Raul, painting on canvas, by Washington DC artist Leslie M. Nolan

Just completed and available in the studio.  Sized 36×36 inches, Raul appears enigmatic with eyes that have much to say if only we could interpret them.  This kind of painting thrills me with its ambiguity and arresting quality.  It makes one think.  It’s not just pretty wallpaper.

Olaf

Gerard_36x36_acryliconcanvas_$4,200

36×36 painting on canvas by Washington, DC area artist Leslie M. Nolan

Newly completed and available in my Virginia studio. Contact me directly – leslie@leslienolan.com