Gallery Wall
Bi-monthly, the library features a different artist or group of artists on the Gallery Wall and in the display case on the 2nd floor. Please contact the Adult Programming Librarian with questions about the Gallery Wall. Artists interested in displaying their art can submit an Art Display Proposal form.
On the Wall
Art created by Nicole McNamara
What is your connection to Glen Ellyn?
I have been a resident of Glen Ellyn for five years.
What is the title or theme of the collection?
Bypassing the Brain
Briefly describe the collection.
Without any intention other than to bypass my brain in the decision making process, these pieces exist solely because choices were made on what felt right vs what should have been done.
What type of media is used in the collection?
Oil on canvas
Do you work with other types of media?
I work primarily with oils.
What was your inspiration for the collection?
Color brings me joy, and what better way to spend my time than playing with color?
What inspired you to become an artist?
There is a part of me that has always been compelled to create something out of nothing. I’m not sure if I would say that I have become an artist, but that I just really am happiest when I can play with colors and push some paint around.
What is your artistic (or professional) background?
I am self taught.
How did you reach the current point of your career?
Learning firsthand from my mistakes what does and doesn’t work visually, and most importantly the science behind it.
How has art influenced your life?
I approach each blank canvas with the determination that I will try not to paint what I visualize internally should appear before me, but what will transpire in the present as I choose to bypass my brain and shed the ego. This allows my soul to freely choose colors, brushes and strokes as it pleases.
The best pieces occur when I don’t try so hard, just like in life.
What do you like most about being an artist?
The infinite possibilities of creating dynamic color combinations allows for an infinite amount of expression.
In the Case
Made in The Workshop
Items created using maker equipment that will soon be available in the library’s makerspace, The Workshop.