Today we’d like to introduce you to Nancy Junkin
Hi Nancy, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I am is a visual artist whose work involves bold color stories.. Having studied under a variety of artists from across the US, I continue to believe color influences both mood and identity. Thirty years ago, a reoccurring dream pushed me to pick up a paintbrush. Ever since, I’ve used painting as a mode of therapy and discovery- both for myself and for my clients. My paintings, which draw on abstract and realist practices, is represented by the Howell Gallery in Oklahoma City.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I’ve been extremely fortunate in my art career. At last, after surviving the challenges of early adult life…raising children, working as an investment consultant, working in an interior design firm and taking classes toward my MFA, I was ready to turn my attention to painting.
Early on I studied acrylic painting with Bert Seabourn, an internationally recognized artist in OKC and had a bedroom studio in our home. It wasn’t long before I branched out, experimenting, traveling to workshops and increased the size of my studio by moving into our larger upstairs room. My first gallery was in an art coop where I had the opportunity to showcase and market my paintings.
As I began to paint in larger sizes, we added a dedicated art studio onto our home. It was at this point in my art career that I was honored by the Howell Gallery, a premier art gallery in Oklahoma City, with an offer to represent me and my paintings.
As time passed, I moved into an offsite larger studio and continued studying with a variety of artists across the US and with Dennis Johnson in Oklahoma City.
My two major hurdles continue to be TIME and management of the business side of my work.. The requirement to stay relatively current in the social media world, while somewhat entertaining, has taken a chunk of my studio days when I’d much rather be painting!
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?
The main focus of my art career has been painting on canvas, typically in acrylics, occasionally in oils. I am known for my figurative work as well as non-objective abstracts with expressisive, energetic marks and bold color.
I am proud to have repeat collectors and hearing how much they enjoy my work. Although I find commission work a bit challenging, I’m always honored to have a special request for a painting. In addition, I have been given opportunities to be featured in private shows as well as those with small groups.
I’m often told my paintings emotionally connect with viewers — whether it’s the colors, the figures or the shapes in the abstracts. Possibility that’s the goal of many working artists. However, I do feel this may set me apart from some. It definitely is an important aspect of my work.
What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
color, freedom of expression and willingness to experiment
Contact Info:
- Website: website: nancyjunkin.com
- Instagram: Instagram: nancyjunkinart
- Facebook: Facebook: nancyedwardsjunkin
- Other: additional FB: Justoffwesternstudios
Image Credits
Leigh Love – Howell Gallery photo