new on the lane: artist liz nichols
This week we want to introduce you to Liz Nichols, a new artist at Ivy Lane who has filled our shop with her beautiful paintings. We thought you would enjoy learning a little more this talented artist and hope that you come by the new shop to see her work soon.
Tell us a little about yourself and your path to becoming an artist.
Some of my earliest memories are of my dad giving me watercolor lessons. I remember being fascinated by how the colors ran together and believe he instilled in me a love for creating. I went on to study art and get my BFA with an emphasis in painting from the University of Mississippi.
Almost two years ago, with the support and encouragement of my husband and family, I started painting full time. I now feel so lucky to be able to paint every day and am amazed every time someone spends their hard-earned money and values something I created. It’s an incredible feeling.
Where do you draw your inspiration?
Everything around me! Definitely my baby boy. He was born last summer and has been the greatest joy. He has just given me a new appreciation for the sweetness of life. Also growing up in Mississippi and now living in Chattanooga it’s hard not to be inspired by the gorgeous mountains and river that make up the landscape here. I’m continuously attempting to capture a moment of appreciation and wonder.
Has your style changed or developed over time?
Absolutely. Every time I am in front of the easel I am learning something new. That knowledge is (hopefully!) carried into the next painting…I think it’s an ever evolving process of growing as an artist.
Do you work exclusively with oils and can you tell us a little about why you chose that medium?
I mostly paint with oils — I enjoy watercolor too, but paint with oils daily. I just love mixing colors! It’s funny, but no matter how many times I mix yellow and blue, I am still fascinated that green appears. I mean how amazing is that?!
What pieces do you most enjoy creating?
I love painting abstracts. The fresh, gestural aspect and freedom in painting this way is very therapeutic.
Do you have a favorite painting?
So hard to pick a favorite but have always loved Monet’s “Impression, Sunrise.” My favorite contemporary artist’s painting would be Alex Kanevsky’s “Tree.” I saw this painting in San Francisco at the Dolby Chadwick Gallery, and it changed everything for me.
What is the most valuable piece of advice you’ve been given as an artist?
One of my instructors and favorite artists said this: “Painting, like any relationship, will have its ups and down…try to find a way to fall in love with what you do every day.”
- About the studio
Alex Deringer and Courtney Cox combine their formal training in design and fashion with their renowned sense of style in Ivy Lane, a full-service interior design firm that curates casually elegant family dwellings that are elevated by a unique spark. Whether an entire house renovation or a one-room makeover, Alex and Courtney’s extensive experience and collaborative dynamic inform a successful design philosophy: thoroughly understand the client’s lifestyle, bring a thoughtful spatial perspective, and enliven the space with the freshest aesthetic interest.
309C Cameron Street
Alexandria, Virginia 22314
studio@ivylaneliving.com
703.566.6582
2 Comments
So pretty! Love the one above the headboard.
really pretty!