Françoise Nielly

French painter Françoise Nielly has a huge influence in not only my art, but also in how I approach my everyday life. Through her urban-culture inspired vibrant painting, Nielly makes a statement with every piece. 

Her work is to me is flawless. 'Expressive, exhibiting a brute force, a fascinating vital energy. Oil and knife combine to sculpt her images from a material that is, at the same time, biting and incisive, charnel and sensual. Whether she paints the human body or portraits, the artist takes a risk: her painting is sexual, her colors free, exuberant, surprising, even explosive' 

Nielly was introduced to art at a very young age; she learned construction of a painting and discipline from her architect father. Her bio mentions that in her life there was no room for flaws or errors; her dad was harsh, demanding and critical. She appreciates all he taught her, but she liked deconstruction and crazyness.  Her father reminds me how society is today, with all the high and strict expectations. Graduate high school, go to college, get a real job, get married, have kids... Blah blah, I hate that. For some people, it is truly a dream to accomplish those things, and that is perfect. However those guidelines aren't for everyone; I, like a lot of others am attending college without truly knowing why, I can't even decide on a major! And, no kids for me thanks, having three younger brothers is enough.  
I truly admire Nielly because she has been true to herself. Even some of her older paintings, which are more realistic ( below), show her rebellious personality. Breaking the rules by not blending colors, unveiling her strokes, leaving inconsistent thickness of paint.I too need to stay true, break the rules and continue doing things as I see fit. I encourage everyone to follow their own definition of perfection. Live the life that you want to live, paint your own breathtaking masterpiece.      Check out Francoise Nielly's work at http://www.francoise-nielly.com/

      

My masterpiece is a work in progress. I am still learning things about myself daily, and continue to believe that one day I will do something great and become someone's inspiration. 

XX

Isabel