Ella Nilsson
Painting, Drawing
Artist's statement: As a painter and illustrator, Ella Nilsson explores the captivating nuances of the human face, using mostly grayscale to define forms and expressions. Contrast has been a reoccurring theme in her work, rooted back to the contrasting landscapes and different cultures in her upbringing. Her work leverages into the interplay of light and shadow to uncover the hidden aspects to her viewers. Working primarily on wood panels, Ella integrates the natural beauty of the grain into her composition. While utilizing photographs as references, she also embraces artistic freedom to create unique interpretations. Working in a series allows Ella more flexibility within the creative boundaries she sets for herself. For the viewer, the experience is akin to individual songs comprising an album.
Her Shady Ladies Series delves into the interplay of cast shadows and faces. The Convex Edition adds a window of color into a grayscale world. To further emphasize that contrast, she employs a mix of media, working with both acrylic and colored pencil. Bio: Ella Nilsson is a portrait and figurative artist born to artist parents. Raised in northern New Jersey, and also in her father’s native Tehran, Iran, she currently resides in Austin, TX, where she has lived and worked since 2007. Ella holds Bachelor’s degrees in both Fine Art and Criminal Justice/Pre-Law. Since 2008, Ella has showcased her artwork in numerous group and solo exhibitions in Austin. She is a member of ATX Gals, the largest local female and non-binary collective. Beyond her artwork, Ella enjoys home improvement projects, aviation, documentaries, competitive skee-ball and cats.
Art Tour Stop 17: Hangar Art Studios
