Artist Spotlight Series: Mary Nelson Sinclair

October 13, 2014

Artist Spotlight Series: Mary Nelson Sinclair

Abstract Art, Art, New York

By HollyPhillips

Art, Artist, Artist Spotlight Series. Art, Mary Nelson Sinclair, New York, Voltz Clarke

I am excited to introduce you into a rising star in the art world who recently caught the eye of Domino Magazine.

Mary Nelson Sinclair

New York, New York

What is your training?

Started painting in high school at the Millbrook School in the Hudson Valley.

Earned a BFA in Art History and Fine Arts at the Pratt Insitute in Brooklyn, NY. Attended the Charles Cecil Studio (Figure Drawing) in Florence, Italy for Fall 2013.

What inspires you and your designs?

I have always been inspired the old vs. new, in European cities especially; the decaying next to the contemporary. By having a wash of drips and scribbles next to a bold and vivid shape I am trying to communicate those peeling layers next to something new and, especially in our era, ostentatious. My recent travels to India I gained a new sense of color; I realized combinations that I never would have before. With my works on paper, I am typically drawn to referencing textiles from Africa and the Far East.

What is your favorite piece?

Three favorites of my newest work (all oil/mixed media on canvas);

I also love my work from school, especially from my printmaking days (images attached with descriptions). I haven’t really had the opportunity to work in this medium since graduating so these are very special to me!

How has your area influenced your work?

New York is constantly changing with new coming up next to the old. Walking out my door is a daily reminder. Most importantly though, I would say that the access to galleries and museums and being exposed to contemporary art.

What is your favorite restaurant in NYC?

So many – Buvette,

Edi & the Wolf,

Swifty’s,

Barrio Chino….I could keep going

What is your favorite cocktail?

Grapefruit margarita

How do you balance personal life and work?

They are one in the same and I am very lucky that I love what I do!

Dream trip?

Morocco – going on it!

Dream commission?

Someone who wasn’t afraid of color or size!

I would love to paint clients walls as if they were a canvas – I did this in my own home and it was by far the most freeing “piece” I have ever worked on.

favorite host / hostess gift to give?

Flowers – arranged by me – in a lovely vase

Who is your style icon?

My Grandmother (Virginia, we call her Ginger). I have raided her closet and have many gems thanks to her. Her style is timeless but has that 60’s/70’s edge that I adore. She is a bold southern woman with a fabulous sense of humor that is the icing on the cake of her effortless style.

Your favorite up and coming artist?

Jackie Saccoccio – she is somewhat established, but still on the up and up! Absolutely in love with her work. I am drawn to her graphic yet atmospheric compositions.