ARTIST STATEMENT
In my art, I create intricate three-dimensional mixed-media pieces that explore the relationship between raw materials and man-made industrial objects. Various methodologies are applied to construct unique and whimsical sculptures, installations, and assemblages from repurposed salvaged materials. My inspiration derives from a wide range of sources, including abstract and cubist sculptures, Surrealism, Gothic fiction, and the Steampunk movement. I am particularly intrigued by subjects some might find creepy or disturbing, such as masks, puppets, bats, insects, and body parts. As a visual storyteller, I aim to inspire others to appreciate the small details and intricacies in everyday life that I find captivating.
The vision for each piece begins with a single reclaimed item that sparks a clear direction for my work. Once I have my initial idea, I analyze a diverse array of resources to inform my work, thus ensuring an accurate representation of the creatures I create the flora and fauna with which they dwell. My research includes photographs of different life forms in their natural habitats, biological illustrations, scientific texts, and other artistic interpretations. My art is presented as a puzzle; it can be appreciated as a whole or examined closely to uncover the original purpose of the found parts. The intention is to evoke emotions and curiosity by presenting compelling representations of the mysterious, bizarre, and sometimes frightening beauty discoverable in the world around us.
BIO
Nancy Nolet grew up in Bowie, Maryland, and later moved to Baltimore to attend the University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC). After earning her bachelor's degree in Philosophy, she embarked on a successful multi-decade career in real estate. However, during the COVID-19 lockdown, she felt inspired to return to school to study art and design, ultimately leading her to pursue her artistic passion.
From a young age, Nancy explored various art forms. In her late twenties, a client introduced her to mixed-media sculpture, resulting in the discovery of her true medium. Her primary sculpting process involves salvaging found objects, but she also incorporates ceramics, textiles, glass, and paper into her body of work. Nancy eventually discovered delight in creating whimsical artworks celebrating beauty in often-overlooked places. Through her art, she aims to evoke emotion and curiosity, using her eccentric humor to transform existing materials into compelling and relatable representations of our mysterious world.
Nancy currently resides in Phoenix, Maryland, with her husband, children, and their two French Bulldogs.
CV
“I try to offset any tendency toward macabre with humor. ”
Education
MFA Studio Arts, Sculpture (ongoing)
AFA Sculpture
AA Interior Design
BA Philosophy
Group Exhibitions
Roman's Bar, Baltimore, MD (Curated by Cathy Evans, Artist/Graphic Designer)
2014: “Red”
2015: “Alters & Archetypes”, a cigar box show
2016: “Robox”, a cigar box show
2017: “Kinetics”, Gallery 1448, Baltimore, MD (Curated by Cathy Evans,, Artist/Graphic Designer)
2 019: “Changelings”, Dairy Barn Gallery, Middleburg, VA (Curated by Melissa Craig, Artist)
2020: “Galaxy” (Curated by Melissa Craig, Artist)
2022-23: Exhibition - CCBC Art Showcases (Curator Matthew Sherwood, Artist/Sculpture Professor)
2023: CCBC Student Art Sale (curated by Sharon Trumbal, Professor Art & Design)