Painter Nancy Gunther captures the landscape of the wild and beautiful Southern California coast in her portfolio. Visit her website to see more.
“Dana Point” acrylic, 24″ x 12″
I was born in Glendale, California in 1955. I’ve lived in Southern California in Whittier, and now Capistrano Beach is another city I call home. Creativity has always been at the center of my life. My passion for art began in junior high when I realized I could really draw. From that moment, I knew art was not just something I enjoyed, but something I needed. I often say, “A part of me dies if I am not creating. Life is joyful when I do what I love.”
“Sunlit Palms” acrylic, 36″ x 48″
I studied design at Brooks College of Design in Long Beach, graduating in 1975. I have continued to refine my skills through decades of study with inspiring teachers. My journey has included workshops with Seagrin Stewart, Kwok Wai Lau, Nicholas Wilton, Sergio Gomez, Gabriel Lipper, Rick J Delanty, and Ray Roberts. Additionally, I have taken classes at MoMA in New York, the Palm Springs Museum, Art2Life Academy and 8Paint. Each experience has added new dimensions to my practice.
“Soar” acrylic, 24″ x 36″
My work is rooted in what I call Contemporary Realism with Impressionistic Influences. Contemporary Realism: My pieces capture the natural world, with recognizable, realistic forms. The brushwork shows observation and control, but it’s not photographic. Rather, it expresses atmosphere and feeling.
“Checking the Set” acrylic, 12″ x 4″
Impressionistic Influences: I capture movement and reflections, and tell a story through visible brushstrokes and layered color rather than precise detailing. My artist’s hand and gesture are evident, creating a sense of motion and energy in the subjects I paint.
“Saturday Read” acrylic, 12″ x 4″
I’m influenced by my background in fashion, tile painting, stage design, oil, mixed media and now open acrylic painting. Primarily I paint on custom birchwood panels, using palette knives, silicone tools, and brushes to layer history, memory, and imagination. I have a deep love of California’s coastlines, figurative work, and capturing places I have traveled around the world.
“Beach Walking” acrylic, 12″ x 4″
I have been fortunate to show my work regularly at Studio 7 Gallery in Laguna Beach, San Clemente Art Association, City of Hope Hospital in Irvine, and in exhibitions throughout Southern California.
“Held in Wonder” acrylic, 16″ x 20″
Over the years, I have received First Place and Best of Show awards. I’ve been featured in several art publications, and placed works in both private and corporate collections throughout the USA.
“Splash” acrylic, 24″ x 36″
Through my paintings, I strive to create soulful moments of rest and joy. I want to offer viewers a space to pause, breathe, and connect with beauty.
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