Natalie Talocci

My inspiration comes from all around me, but I am particularly inspired by music. When I close my eyes and let the sounds take me away, my mind is flooded with creativity.

I am not satisfied with simply applying paint to canvas. For me, the fun (and challenge) comes from mixing my own paints and working in a rather unorthodox way. I begin with a sketch and use hot glue to build up lines and borders. I then apply layer upon layer of paint mixed with water and acrylic medium to the canvas. I use a variety of techniques to apply the paint to each layer: dripping, splattering, brushing.

There is a challenge in working with so many layers of paint. A lot is left up to chance during the drying process. Colors bleed and mix and sometimes magical things happen. It’s these ‘happy accidents’ that keep me coming back to this process time and time again.

My inspiration comes from all around me, but I am particularly inspired by music. When I close my eyes and let the sounds take me away, my mind is flooded with creativity. I can almost visualize the sounds. The thoughts and emotions I experience in this way are expressed through my art.

I am also greatly influenced by artists from the past. Greats like Mucha, Kandinsky, and Harring have inspired me to hone my skills and perfect my technique. To achieve even a fraction of the mastery of these artists is my goal.

While my primary medium is acrylic paint, I also enjoy working in oils, watercolor, and collage. However, the medium isn’t so important– it’s the message that matters. Whether painting figures, portraits, or something from nature, I always try to add a deeper meaning to my art. True art should speak to the viewer and leave them considering something beyond the visuals. At least, that’s what I strive for in my work.