Today we’d like to introduce you to Nancy Roux.
Nancy, please kick things off for us by telling us about yourself and your journey so far.
As the child of artist parents, it was always pretty much a given that I would follow in their footsteps. At the time I completed my art degree; however, most opportunities required skills other than art and design – so, most of my career years were spent outside of the art field. That changed in 2011 when I experienced a growing desire to return to my creative roots. At an age when most would be thinking about retirement, I stepped out in faith and began creating and exhibiting photographic artwork.
Can you give our readers some background on your art?
Just as a painter creates artwork with a brush or a knife, I create artwork with a camera.
Like most people, I am passionate about the infinite variety of color, texture, and design in nature. I call it God’s living sketchbook, and it truly lights my hair on fire. Apply to that the fundamental principles of design – balance, emphasis, movement, pattern, repetition, proportion, rhythm, variety, unity – and, the resulting image ignites the soul.
The most important lesson I learned in art school was how to see. Once you get it, everything else falls into place. The most important lesson I’ve learned since then is to follow God as he shows me where to look. He never disappoints.
For some reason, I see things that most people overlook. I would have to classify most of what I create as “organic abstracts” – exquisite little designs in nature that are right under our noses – you simply have to look for them to find them. For instance, I might describe a passing glance at a sunflower as pleasurable, but when I take a closer look at the radial design at its core – it’s breathtaking. Put twenty people on the rim of the Grand Canyon, and I’ll be the nut on her hands and knees photographing a tree trunk.
I work exclusively digital and handle all post-production tasks in Photoshop. Requirements vary, depending on the complexity of the image and how I choose to present the completed artwork. Typically, I print my work on fine art canvas or infuse it on high-gloss aluminum. I also place great importance on the presentation of finished works to make them distinctly my own; I often design and build custom-crafted backings and displays made of hardwood, steel, copper and glass to showcase special edition works.
Creating artwork has been one of my greatest joys, and if my work touches someone at the soul-level and nourishes their connection to nature, then I am doubly blessed!
Do you think conditions are generally improving for artists? What more can cities and communities do to improve conditions for artists?
Selling artwork has always been a challenge for emerging artists. With such a massive amount of talent in the SoCal art community, it’s critical for an artist to find a way to differentiate his or her work from that of everyone else. This is particularly important for the fine art photographer since anyone with a digital camera and a good eye has the potential to join the game.
I enjoyed a long career in the presentation field, and it taught me the importance of “packaging” my work in an original and distinctive way. My Mantelpiece Works™ (metal prints suspended from original, three-dimensional tabletop displays of my own design and construction) are a prime example of that.
I have exhibited my work at some of the finest art shows and festivals in Southern California, and I can tell you that strong local promotion and strong event attendance go hand-in-hand. Cities that promote artists, events, programs, and organizations provide an invaluable service to artists by keeping art happenings in the public eye. VoyageLA Magazine contributes to artists’ success as well with every feature you share with your readers. And, I’m sure my gratitude extends into the rest of the art community at large.
What’s the best way for someone to check out your work and provide support?
I currently exhibit my work at Cove Gallery in Laguna Beach. Getting to know gallery visitors is great fun for me, and it’s always interesting to learn about their artwork wants and needs. Some gallery visitors spot the perfect piece the minute they walk through the door! Others appreciate the opportunity to preview a particular piece in their home. And, still, others have special circumstances and choose to partner with me on a commissioned piece. Collaboration between artist and client builds a special relationship, with each experiencing the joy of participating in the creation of something that’s uniquely their own!
My work is also represented online at Cove Gallery’s web site www.covegallerylaguna.com as well as my own at www.nancyrouxphoto.com. Nancy Roux Photography also maintains an online presence via Facebook (www.facebook.com/NancyRouxPhotography).
The best way for people to support an artist’s work?
That’s easy… BUY it!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.nancyrouxphoto.com
- Email: [email protected]
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NancyRouxPhotography/
- Other: https://covegallerylaguna.com/pages/artist-nancy-roux
Image Credit:
Nancy Roux Photography
Getting in touch: VoyageLA is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
