Today we’d like to introduce you to Nancy Davis
Nancy, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
A Kansas native, I moved to Greenville, South Carolina, in 1993. After a brief initial adjustment, it didn’t take long before I fell in love with South Carolina’s charm and hospitality. Almost a decade ago, an opportunity to repurpose discarded wine and liquor bottles led me to the vibrant world of alcohol ink art. While alcohol ink as a medium for abstract art is still my first love, I eventually developed the desire to paint in a more impressionistic style, so turned my attention to acrylic painting. I found the sweet spot by learning how to recreate the vibrancy of alcohol ink with acrylic paint. In addition to wall art, I make unique designer purses. These small gems are both functional and artistic, and no two are alike.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It has been a surprisingly smooth road considering I had no aspirations of becoming an artist until well into adulthood. I was given the opportunity to present my work in a local gallery, where I stayed for four years. Then, a great artist friend and I were presented with the opportunity to open a gallery of our own. Our gallery has been open less than a year and has earned the reputation as a favorite in Greenville. We are fortunate and proud to be the only art gallery in a very popular cultural area of Main Street. It is satisfying to offer other local artists the same opportunity that was afforded to me. I guess you could say it’s my way of paying it forward. Of course, I have my work displayed there as well.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
As mentioned, I began working with alcohol ink as a medium for abstract art. I developed my own unique style and techniques to create the bold effects I desired. Then I moved into acrylic painting. I now enjoy painting landscape scenes, impressionistic houses, and abstract floral compositions using my fingers as a “brush.”
I am most proud of affording other local artists an opportunity to showcase and sell their work in the gallery I co-own in downtown Greenville.
What sets me apart from others, I would say, is to be a rule breaker. Some will say an artist should be known for a certain style or subject matter. That’s not me. While I will sometimes paint a loosely defined “series” of paintings (i.e., similar colorways and subject matter), I likely will not repeat that same style or subject matter. Inspiration for my work is unlimited. If I watch a video of a beautiful village in Italy, I’ll paint it. If I see a scene of an old barn with a striking sunset in the background, I’ll paint it. If I feel like painting whimsical cats, I’ll paint them. However, whatever the subject matter, the unifying element is bright, bold color!
The other thing that sets me apart is the designer purses I make. Everyone who comments on them says they’ve never seen anything like them. That’s 100% true because I’m one of a tiny number of makers of this style of handbag. Creating functional art is the ultimate in creativity for me.
Are there any books, apps, podcasts or blogs that help you do your best?
There’s so much “noise” and competition for our attention. While I appreciate that one can find assistance and advice on any subject matter in mere seconds, I prefer to direct my screen time and reading to humorous subject matter. If there’s a comedian I like, I’ll watch his or her show repeatedly and laugh every single time. Life is short. Give time and effort to things and people who enrich your life.
Pricing:
- Paintings range from $30-$600 depending on size and subject matter
- Commission work starting at $40 for a 4x4x1.5″ house painting up to $500 or more depending on size and details desired
- Designer purses range from $85-$175
- Art prints range from $25-$40
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.nancydavisstudio.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/nancydavisstudio
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@nancydavisstudio
