Carrie Nixon

Concerned

Inspired by: Esther Solondz, Untitled (Rust Portrait)

recycled/reclaimed oils on translucent mylar

19” x 31”

2023

I was inspired by Esther Solondz’s “Rust Portrait” and her use of an organic substance to create a sensitive portrait. To approximate rust, I only used 4 recycled/reclaimed oil colors by Gamblin (plus a white): Torrit Grey, made of dry pigments collected from their factory air filtration system, and 3 Reclaimed Earth Colors-reddish, purplish, and dark browns-extracted from toxic coal mining residue in Appalachian Ohio. I eschewed the distancing factor of photography and painted the “Concerned” model, Tom, from life. First, this gave me a personal connection with him, as a young person whose future will be affected by climate change and environmental issues. Second, it led to a more trial and error process, with searching “pentimenti” lines and drips. This capricious painting process echoes the uneven human attempts to reclaim and heal our damaged environment.

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Carrie Nixon

Worcester County Royalty #2: Charles K.

Oil on Duralar/mylar with decorative papers, Ghanaian Kente cloth, and brass grommets

36” x 24”

2023

Charles modeled in person over several sessions, and he regaled us with stories about his life, his music, and his love for W. African Kente cloth. In this portrait I aimed to suggest the richness of Charles’ experiences, talents, and personality.

@carrienixonart

Carrie Nixon

Maahin with Orange and Violet Light

oil on mylar

36″ x 24″

2024

I paint models from life so that I know and see them. My aim is to integrate the model’s essence, my personal filter, and the expressive tendencies of the medium. In this case, I was very aware of Maahin’s intellect, global experience, and intensity. As far as the medium, painting in oil with large brushes on mylar results in drips, unblended strokes, and translucency.

@carrienixonart

Carrie Nixon

The Fluffernutter, State Sandwich of Massachusetts

Inspired by: Charles “Teenie” Harris, Cotton Candy Booth Henry George Todd, Study of Strawberries

oil on mylar

36″ x 30″

2024

This painting of a Fluffernutter-invented in Massachusetts in 1917-responds to two images from the Fitchburg Art Museum. It connects to Henry George Todd’s “Study of Strawberries” engaging the theme of Vanitas, with the drippy Fluffernutter and the berries as metaphors for the fragility and brevity of life. It also links to Charles “Teenie” Harris’ photo of the eager children anticipating cotton candy; the Fluffernutter and the cotton candy are sugary treats that many of us crave even though they are slightly “sinful.” Hence, this painting is a commentary on sensual desire.

@carrienixonart

Carrie Nixon

Uncertain Future

from life; oil on mylar + decorative papers (and grommets for hanging).

24” x 24”

2023

This young man is a bright and successful local College student who faces the typical challenges of a soon-to-be-graduate. In addition, his future will involve navigating and harmonizing both his South Asian and his American identities. I took advantage of the translucency of the mylar to insert angled sheets of colored paper hinting at possible future collisions.

@carriepainter1518