We had the good fortune of connecting with Nancy Race and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Nancy, what principle do you value most?
I hope that through my art I can reflect the beauty of God’s creation. As a Christian, my faith is most important to me and I want to glorify Him through my art. Painting is a refuge for my soul and I’m so incredibly thankful for this gift. I love giving back to the community through Christian missions as well as the arts, specifically as a Board member of The Bascom: A Center for the Visual Arts in Highlands, NC.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I never even dreamed of painting until I was 49. Friends asked me to join them in a class and I agreed solely for the social interaction. And, was I wrong! From that first class I fell in love with painting! And I couldn’t get enough of it. I have a background in interior design, so I’m sure that has had a big influence on my love of color. My collectors say they appreciate my colorful work because it makes them happy. And spreading joy is one of my goals!
Being an artist is a never ending journey. There is always something new to learn. When I am painting, it is as if I am transported to another place. Totally out of my head, with a sense of freedom and abundance. I am so very grateful for that.
I will say that the challenges of running a small business on your own can be daunting, when all you want to do is paint! But marketing is so key to getting eyes on your art. So I have recently outsourced my social media and that has been a big weight off my shoulders.
My brand is all about joy, abundance and faith. I want to honor God in everything I do; especially through my art. So many people tell me that they could never be artistic. I think just the opposite – that we are all made to be creative in some way. I encourage them to be open to new things, no matter their age. Life long learning is so life-giving! It’s never too late to try something out of the ordinary …God may have something very exciting waiting for you!
Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I would visit the High Museum of Art (duh!) and the Woodruff Arts Center for a play, The Botanical Gardens and Piedmont Park are fabulous, highlighting all the spectacular trees in Atlanta. Walking or biking along the Beltline to people watch is a favorite With kids, watching air[planes take off at Peachtree- Dekalb Airport, the Aquarium and Fernbank Museum would wear them out, not to mention our national pastime – the Atlanta Braves!,
There is lots of great food in Atlanta. If you like beautiful books and food in an intimate atmosphere, head to Lucian, La Grotta is an Italian institution, set below an unassuming midrise. For fresh fish with a Greek flair go to Kyma with a very cool blue and white vibe.. For tapas, the Iberian Pig is fun and has a convivial atmosphere. Le Colonial is fabulous for high end Vietnamese cuisine and exudes a tropical feel. Anis is an indoor/outdoor French cafe – perfect for a girl’s lunch or a first date.
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
During the pandemic, I had lots of time to devote to my painting. Online classes fulfilled my need for growth as well as community during this season. Specifically, the teaching of Nicholas Wilton and Art2Life, which reaches artists throughout the globe. Also, Cat Tesla has been a big support to me and given me many new tools to add to my “arsenal”. After the pandemic, I was able to travel to Mexico with Nicholas as well as New Orleans with Cat for workshops.
Online learning is fantastic, but on location in person is definitely best. Inspiration from the travel and meeting other artists is priceless!
Website: https://www.nancyraceart.com
Instagram: @nancyraceart
Facebook: nancyraceart
Image Credits
@hedgyandcompany