Nell Mayes Koopman

The most exciting aspect of being an artist is the opportunity to translate my thoughts in a creative manner. I use color and texture to convey an emotional response to memories and life events. By manipulating the materials on the canvas, I create an abstract and expressive visual of the people, places and emotions that I encounter. A large portion of my artwork incorporates layering of acrylic and gel or putty and then altering the mediums with water, sand, fiber, charcoal and pastel. I emphasize the textures and create depth in the piece by using a tinted glazing medium.
Art is my voice, and a means to tell my story and communicate my emotions. It is a way to leave my memories and thoughts in a tangible form for years to come. Although I am a native Texan, I consider Alabama my true home. I earned a degree in communications and graphic design from The University of Alabama and a Master of Art Education from The University of Montevallo. I have strong southern roots which inspire me to create and share my deep values for family and community. I currently reside in the Washington, DC metro area and continue to emerge as an artist.