Irene Nunn
Realistic Landscape, Still Life, and Figurative Painting
Artist Statement: Realism has held its own through centuries of changing styles and movements. Though representative, it melds the artist’s state of mind with what is visually perceived. The apparent human touch, the small areas of imperfection compel the viewer to see through a different lens, to connect with the artist on new journey of perception. The apogee of realistic art is the portrait, which was my specialization for many years. A portrait is a holistic representation of the individual and serves as an example of the period in which he or she belongs. Times have changed, and I am currently seeking to engage in a more impressionistic and contextual approach to the human figure. It does not lessen my attention to detail but allows for a more playful approach in its final expression.
Increasingly, painting landscapes has become rewarding in a different way. I find greater freedom to experiment with color and form, to reveal my perception of what I find magical. My favorite medium has always been pastel for landscapes; only recently has this preference morphed toward oil. Landscapes are first created then sold, not the opposite as in portraiture. And they don’t require absolute adherence to the particulars of a given scene. Landscapes continue to fascinate with moments in time that almost approach perfection if you can capture them. I do not have to go far to locate Philadelphia area scenes that rivet the eye, hold centuries of history and invite a desire to render in paint.
Studio 8
Irene Nunn
Realistic Landscape, Still Life, and Figurative Painting
Artist Statement: Realism has held its own through centuries of changing styles and movements. Though representative, it melds the artist’s state of mind with what is visually perceived. The apparent human touch, the small areas of imperfection compel the viewer to see through a different lens, to connect with the artist on new journey of perception. The apogee of realistic art is the portrait, which was my specialization for many years. A portrait is a holistic representation of the individual and serves as an example of the period in which he or she belongs. Times have changed, and I am currently seeking to engage in a more impressionistic and contextual approach to the human figure. It does not lessen my attention to detail but allows for a more playful approach in its final expression.
Increasingly, painting landscapes has become rewarding in a different way. I find greater freedom to experiment with color and form, to reveal my perception of what I find magical. My favorite medium has always been pastel for landscapes; only recently has this preference morphed toward oil. Landscapes are first created then sold, not the opposite as in portraiture. And they don’t require absolute adherence to the particulars of a given scene. Landscapes continue to fascinate with moments in time that almost approach perfection if you can capture them. I do not have to go far to locate Philadelphia area scenes that rivet the eye, hold centuries of history and invite a desire to render in paint.
Studio 8