Colette Wirz Nauke
Astoria, New York
Artist Colette Wirz Nauke draws inspiration from her surroundings, memories, and imagination. "As a child, I was mesmerized by the beauty of the cherry blossoms in my grandfather’s backyard," shares Colette. Now, as an adult, she reconnects with that magical feeling and captures it in her work. Heavily influenced by Impressionism and Post-Impressionism, Colette particularly admires the techniques of Monet, Cézanne, and Bonnard. She spends her summers traveling across the US and abroad in search of her next muse. When she’s not painting, Colette enjoys visiting art museums, exploring parks, and teaching art.
Artist Statement
Inspired by my fascination with nature, I juxtapose birds, fish, shells, flowers, and landscapes in various environments within my works, offering viewers a glimpse into my dreams and imagination. My body of work expresses the beauty and nobility I see in all life, no matter where it may occur. My paintings capture a balance of delicacy and boldness in form, with strong colors that challenge the viewer. For me, painting always begins with intense observation of the subject matter.
As a child, I was mesmerized by the beauty of the cherry blossoms in my grandfather’s backyard. Each flower captivated me, and each falling petal in the wind sparked my imagination. The blossoms created a fantasy world of magic. Now, when painting the blossoms as an adult, I try to reconnect with that magical feeling I experienced so long ago and capture it on canvas.
I find that my subject matter helps my artistic creativity flow. Always trying new techniques and styles helps me grow as an artist. I constantly seek inspiration from my surroundings, other artists, museums, and photography.
I feel very fortunate to pursue my passion for art. My family, friends, teachers, and husband have all helped me chase my dream, and I am forever thankful. I try to stay humble and just paint, because that is what I love! Painting defines me—I would be lost in this world without my love for art. I am always challenging myself, whether through new subject matter, a bold use of color, an unexpected texture, or even an accidental drip that finds its place on the canvas. I am always amazed when a once blank canvas unravels into a work of art!
As a child, I was mesmerized by the beauty of the cherry blossoms in my grandfather’s backyard. Each flower captivated me, and each falling petal in the wind sparked my imagination. The blossoms created a fantasy world of magic. Now, when painting the blossoms as an adult, I try to reconnect with that magical feeling I experienced so long ago and capture it on canvas.
I find that my subject matter helps my artistic creativity flow. Always trying new techniques and styles helps me grow as an artist. I constantly seek inspiration from my surroundings, other artists, museums, and photography.
I feel very fortunate to pursue my passion for art. My family, friends, teachers, and husband have all helped me chase my dream, and I am forever thankful. I try to stay humble and just paint, because that is what I love! Painting defines me—I would be lost in this world without my love for art. I am always challenging myself, whether through new subject matter, a bold use of color, an unexpected texture, or even an accidental drip that finds its place on the canvas. I am always amazed when a once blank canvas unravels into a work of art!
Artist Background
School of the Art Institute of Chicago
Bachelor of Fine Arts, 2001
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