By Erin Furman
Name: Alexa Nigro
Year: Jan ’09 Graduate
Major: Liberal Arts
Could you describe your collection and what the pieces on display include?
It is called “Reflections of Self.” There are some self-portraits and other paintings that I believe reflect me and my life. I have a new set of paintings in oil that reflect the stomach problems I have been having recently due to anxiety. They are of intestines and other organs and look normal yet are also green and blue and corroded. These are my favorite pieces going in the show, but I only started them in February, so there are only two or three that will be in the show. I also have some quick watercolors and sketches.
How did you get started as an artist?
I always loved drawing, but as a child my mom (an artist) always criticized my work, so I gave up early. In high school, I decided I wanted to start it up again and that I had some sort of natural talent for it. So I began sketching again and went to school for Fashion Design. I have an Associates Degree in that, but I got bored quickly so I went back to school to learn about something that wasn’t art. I ended up taking my first painting class, and ever since I’ve been hooked.
What are your inspirations?
My mom and other artists. I love going through museums and looking at what’s new out there. Sometimes this makes me want to stop painting because I feel like I cannot do what they do, but I have recently realized I should hone in on what I do best in painting and not worry about others. I love to look at other work, but it doesn’t mean my art has to be like that, and I should make something different from what I see. My everyday life is my biggest inspiration, and when I am upset I like to reflect that in my art so other people can relate and not feel that they are the only one with those feelings.
What do you hope to do now that you’ve graduated? Will art continue to be a big part of your life?
I hope to continue to paint and have a job on the side that allows time for my art. I plan to travel a bit first and have a job that allows me to save and take time off.