Today we’d like to introduce you to NJ Weaver.
Every artist has a unique story. Can you briefly walk us through yours?
My first exposure to creativity was from my grandmothers who created utilitarian items for their homes. Making quilts, tatting, crocheting – items for the family and home but also incorporating their own unique creativity in a functional way. I remember childlike drawings but my parents were depression era children, so art was not on the radar as a way of life.
Creativity skips 25 years before it comes full circle. Half of my life has been spent in observation of everything around me. Working in Houston around architecture and interior design professionals was an education within itself. Moving to New Mexico provided exposure to painters, printmakers, and other artisans. New Mexico was the spark, but it was returning to Austin that kick-started my interest in creating my own art.
Initially, I took classes in collage and painting to enhance and expand my skill set. I submitted art to exhibits, I sought out invitations to display my work, and one step after another, I met inspirational women artists who encouraged, supported and mentored me, and who are still a part of my network today. Nine years and four studios after taking a giant leap, I’m still working to go to the next level – whatever and wherever that leads.
Please tell us about your art.
I am an intuitive abstract painter working in encaustic, mixed media and printmaking.
Color, texture, and gestural mark-making are integral to my artwork. I begin a painting by starting with layers of text and/or positive writings. Art carries energy, and it is my aim to send out as much positivity as I can with what I create.
I consider my paintings a visual journal born from my personal experiences, often marking a moment or passage of time in my life. In many ways, they are discoveries and revelations of which I am not cognizant until they are completed. I do not believe that I can explain entirely every nuance of a painting to viewers. I’ve become adept at ascertaining how much information to share about a piece and still leave open a path for the viewers own self-discovery. This usually leads to people talking to me about what they see and what a painting means to them which I love.
The moment a painting is shared, it takes on a boundless life. It becomes real and is no longer just about me.
Do you have any advice for other artists? Any lessons you wished you learned earlier?
Say Yes to opportunities that challenge you especially if you are a new artist. As time goes on you will become more selective of what you choose to do, but it’s all a learning experience. If there’s a voice that says “stop” – listen to it. Walk away and leave your piece for a time and reevaluate your progress on another day. Have faith and a belief in your artwork that can withstand the harshest criticism and don’t ask for someone’s opinion unless you are ready to hear their truth. Dedicate as much time as you can to your art. Just keep moving forward.
How or where can people see your work? How can people support your work?
My studio at Canopy in Austin is open during monthly Open Studios and by appointment. The next Open Studio is Friday, June 7, 7-10pm. Canopy is located at 916 Springdale Road, Studio 117 in Austin, TX.
I am one of the 916 Artists at Canopy, and our “Soul of America” exhibit will be on view in Georgetown in July 2019. Also, if you are traveling to Austin, my artwork is currently on display in the new International Terminal at ABIA through June. Check my website for more updated information.
Collectors are great marketers. No greater compliment is paid than when someone collects your art and hangs it in their home or office.
Contact Info:
- Website: http://www.njweaver.com/
- Phone: 512-663-6690
- Email: njweaver11@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/njweaver/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/njweaver
Image Credit:
Tina Weitz
Emerson Granillo
NJ Weaver
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