Today we’d like to introduce you to Nuari Le Blanc
Hi Nuari, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
Artist Biography: Becoming a creator
My overall vision for creating works of art is to tell my story. I use all mediums of art including writing stories, Jewelry design, multimedia 2D artwork, metal work, sculpting, and collage work using magazines. Everyone here is born with a purpose, and my purpose is to tell the stories of my ancestors and inform people about the misinformation that is so widely spread about the cultural lifestyle and practices of indigenous people and Western African cultures. I’ve always found it easier to communicate my vision and perspective of life through creating artwork.
In 2008 my sister and I made jewelry for the 1st time with my mother. Since a young age I’ve always appreciated creating any form of art. Because of this, I have fostered a deep appreciation and skill for any art form. Making art is how I connect to what truly makes me myself, because it’s how I connect to my ancestral knowledge. In middle school I attended creative writing workshops and art summer camps all throughout highschool. I graduated in 2017, and in 2022 I attended Brooklyn metal works and the Glassell School of Art to continue my knowledge on metalsmithing.
I consider myself to be a multimedia artist, because I can’t limit myself to one form of expression. When people see my art I want them to relate, learn, and understand my story. I love creating jewelry because it is a wearable form of art that can be used in everyday life. The current focus of my career is to create artwork that changes perspectives and brings light to the unseen. I want the take away of my art to be the inspiration for people to appreciate themselves on a deeper level. Every individual person has an opportunity to tell their truth, and my purpose is to give my ancestors a voice while finding my own story.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Houston is my hometown. Growing up here, exploring the city, learning its history, and witnessing its evolution has shaped me in ways no other place could. The city’s rich cultural diversity has allowed me to freely express my own cultural knowledge and creativity. Houston is a hub of independent, innovative, and creative thinkers, which has deeply inspired my work as an artist.
However, I’ve faced challenges, particularly in accessing spaces that nurture free thought and building relationships to curate safe environments for creative energy. Throughout my journey, I’ve encountered many different people, and not everyone’s mindset always aligns with your goals. The people you surround yourself with are crucial, as they can either bring out the best or the worst in you. The right environment is essential for growth, and I’ve learned the importance of creating and finding supportive spaces for creativity.
One of the main challenges my business faced was establishing a safe space for creativity. Over time, I’ve worked to overcome this by vending and creating opportunities for other artists as well. The art community is a powerful and inspiring network, and I am proud to be part of it. I regularly participate as a vendor at events like Rado Market at the Eldorado Ballroom, Shop Local Market, and the International Gem Show. I also collaborate with other artists to create art-centered events.
A notable collaboration is with my friend Akilah Smith, one of the founders of the Living Room Art Show series. In May 2024, we launched the first installment of *The Living Room Art Show Series: Forging the Currents of Creation*, featuring artists Madame Joli, Ajhay, and Nessia Creates. Through this series, we aim to spotlight the creative processes of the artists and the powerful currents that shape their work.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I use a variety of materials and supplies depending on the project I’m working on. I’m a jewelry designer and specialize in metal smithing. In my jewelry making, I source gemstones from around the world, including Arizona, India, Burma, and beyond. I utilize a range of jewelry tools, such as pliers, hammers, and laboratory tools, which are also useful for constructing multimedia structures. My toolkit changes based on the visual storytelling of each piece, so it can vary depending on the medium I’m working with.
When it comes to painting, I typically work with large canvases that I create from wood, poster board, or fabric. I also have an extensive collection of art supplies, including collage materials, glue, thread, and needles for sewing, a sewing machine, and a printing station. I often incorporate natural materials that I find in nature.
For the digital side of my work, I use a Canon camera alongside my phone to capture short films and images, which I then use for advertising on social media, content for my website, and my portfolio. My toolkit is tailored to the specific artistic or jewelry-making project at hand, with both traditional tools and materials serving as a catalyst for visual storytelling.
Alright so before we go can you talk to us a bit about how people can work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
The Living Room Art Show Series, was founded by Nuari LeBlanc and Akilah Smith, with contributions from members Madame Joli, Ajhay, and Nessia Creates. This exhibition explores the dynamic flow of creativity, showcasing a wide range of art forms. It aims to highlight the individual artists and their unique creative disciplines, providing insight into the “what” and “why” behind their work. Through this series, the artists shine a light on their creative processes and the powerful currents that shape their art.People can work with me, collaborate with me, or support me in several ways. If you’re interested in collaboration, infomation on attending one of our events, or simply want to purchase a piece, you can reach out via my email addresses: jynuari@gmail.com or 8thensclub8@gmail.com. You can also contact me by phone at 832-713-3458. Additionally, you can visit my website at www.kissthejewel.com for more information, or follow me on Instagram @kissthejewel and @thelivingroom_artshows for updates and opportunities. We also have an Amazon shop coming soon, so stay tuned for that! Feel free to connect with me directly if you’d like to explore any opportunities to work together.
Pricing:
- $5
- $20
- $50+
- $100+
- $1000+
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.kissthejewel.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kissthejewel
- Other: https://www.instagram.com/thelivingroom_artshows
Image Credits
Nuari LeBlanc, Nife LeBlanc
