ARIEL RODRIQUEZ — Booth S607

https://thealpinestudio.com

Based in Montana, Ariel Rodriguez is an exceptional scratchboard artist known for her intricate depictions of wildlife. With an x-acto knife to meticulously etch each line onto a scratchboard, Rodriguez captures the beauty and realism of Yellowstone’s iconic animals. Her process, akin to tattoo artistry, requires both patience and precision, with each scratch carefully placed to create stunningly lifelike details, from the texture of fur and feathers to the vivid expression in an animal’s eyes.

Rodriguez’s work has been featured in various exhibitions and has garnered acclaim for its ability to immerse viewers in the natural world. She inspires curiosity in younger generations as she works on scratchboards in front of a live audience, inviting them to come up close and see the medium’s appeal before completion.

BILL HAO — Booth 601

https://billhao.com

Bill Hao is a Canadian artist who creates his art from the huge format wetplate collodion process. The wetplate collodion process is an early photographic process dating from the 1850s that requires the photographic material, either a glass or metal plate, to be coated, sensitized, exposed and then developed within a few minutes before the plate dries. To work in the field, this process requires a movable darkroom. Wetplate positives can’t be copied or enlarged, making every piece unique — larger photos require a larger camera.

Bill Hao is an adventurer and a dreamer, who loves a challenging impossibility. He converted a 50-seat bus into a dark room RV that he can drive anywhere his creativity takes him. With his movable darkroom, he creates his works anywhere and meets the challenges of weather, temperature, seasons and light.

HAYDN LEWIS — Booth S314

https://haydnlewisart.com/

Haydn Lewis is a professional artist based in West Sussex, England, with a passion for oil painting. Originally self-taught while earning a Master’s degree in Automotive Engineering at Loughborough University, Lewis discovered his true calling in the vibrant and expressive world of oil painting. His dual Australian and English heritage has provided him with exposure to diverse landscapes and climates, which significantly influence the color palettes in his work.

Lewis’s art focuses on intricate landscapes, seascapes, and star systems, capturing the essence of nature’s most awe-inspiring forms. His subjects range from vibrant coastal scenes and towering mountain ranges to the vastness of the night sky, each rendered on surfaces such as driftwood, ceramic tiles, reclaimed wood, canvas, and hardboard. Inspired by both the northern and southern hemisphere skies, Lewis employs a distinctive technique that combines various oil-based materials and solvents to create dynamic textures, vivid colors, and energetic compositions.

 

MRIYA GALLERY — Booth 607

https://mriya.nyc

Mriya Gallery, established in 2023, stands as New York City’s first Ukrainian art gallery, dedicated to showcasing the rich tapestry of Ukrainian art and culture. Situated at 101 Reade Street in the heart of Tribeca, Mriya—meaning “dream” or “inspiration” in Ukrainian—serves as a cultural bridge between Ukrainian artists and the global art community.

The gallery’s mission is to foster appreciation for Ukrainian artistic expression by providing a platform for both established and emerging artists. Mriya’s diverse exhibitions reflect a commitment to exploring various themes and artistic styles.

Through their thoughtfully curated exhibitions, immersive experiences, and engaging programs, Mriya Gallery inspires dialogue, sparks creativity, and broadens perspectives, fostering cross-cultural understanding and celebrating diversity in the arts. By showcasing powerful works that blend history, identity, and contemporary perspectives from a collective of artists, including Yurii Vatkin, Dasha S. Kandinsky, Tata Kolesnik, and other acclaimed Ukrainian artists, Mriya enriches New York’s cultural landscape.

NEELAM PADTE — Booth S300

https://artbyneelam.com

Neelam Padte is an accomplished artist known for her vibrant, symbolic artworks that explore themes of spirituality, culture, and self-discovery. Born in Mumbai, India, she draws inspiration from her Indian heritage and personal experiences. Today Padte is a full-time floorcloth artist, specializing in hand-painted canvas rugs that showcase her intricate compositions that are rich in color and meaning. Her works, which blend elements of realism and abstraction, have been featured in exhibitions across the United States and internationally, earning admiration for their ability to evoke deep introspection and emotional connection.

Neelam creates her floorcloth abstract mixed media paintings from inspirations of earth, water, wind, fire and space as viewed through the prism of her soul, sharing her inner spirit with the viewers. Viewers often find themselves drawn into her paintings, enveloped by the serene atmosphere of the tranquil colors and gentle brushstrokes. Each piece evoking a sense of peace and introspection, inviting viewers to pause, reflect, and perhaps even meditate upon the beauty captured on the canvas. Many describe feeling a sense of calm wash over them as they immerse themselves in the artwork, allowing it to transport them to a place of tranquility and serenity.

PAMELA GALLEGUILLOS — Booth 312

https://www.pamelagalleguillos.com/

Based in Chile, Pamela Galleguillos is a renowned sculptor celebrated for her striking and evocative works that explore themes of identity, nature, and human emotion, Galleguillos has exhibited in prestigious galleries and international art fairs, earning accolades for her innovative use of materials and her ability to convey movement and emotion through form. Her sculptures often combine organic and abstract shapes, blending textures and layers to create a deep connection between the artwork and its environment.

Over time, Galleguillos’ work began to focus on human, organic figures as a foundation for expressing motivations of the soul, each intertwined into a perfect complement. With her own foundry, ​she shares her knowledge with renowned national artists and pursues and exhibits her own work in cities throughout Chile.

The post Announcing Artexpo New York 2025’s Spotlight Program Recipients appeared first on Art Business News.

Linda Mariano, Editor in Chief

North Carolina mixed media artist Alissa Van Atta finds emotion in paint, texture, composition, and color. She explains: “Art courses through me, shaping my identity and guiding my journey. Starting out as an abstract painter, I spent a great deal of time learning about texture, color and composition. Reintroducing the figure weaves context and narrative, intertwining abstraction and figurative elements. Inspired by vintage ads, my paintings embody humor while boldly confronting women’s rights regression and objectification.

“Through my art, I illuminate pressing issues while remaining deeply connected to my experiences. Creative expression offers solace, healing, and a platform to challenge societal expectations and advocate for women’s rights.”

Art Business News recently met with Van Atta to learn more about her career and journey in building her art business.

ABN: Let’s start at the beginning — tell us about how and when you decided to make art your career.

Van Atta: I’ve always done art, so it’s just as soon as I could pick up a crayon, it’s always been a part of me. I remember stressing in my high school years about “What am I going to do for the rest of my life?” and freaking out. Art has always been there for me, so made a deal with my dad that instead of art school, I would major in art and something else too. I ended up just doing art and got my BFA with a Painting and Art History focus. He always thought I should have added accounting on top of that. But it’s just how my brain works. I could only focus on one thing, so I would have to take all my other requirements in the summer  because all I wanted to do was art.

When I graduated my mom said, “You know you have to make money, right?” I got a little derailed into the world of retail. But art was always there — I knew I had talent and I just had to a take the leap and leave the world of retail. I really didn’t make the complete jump until my mom died, about eight years ago. It occurred to me, you only live once — if not now, when. That’s basically when I dove headfirst and decided “Let’s do this as a full-time thing!” Since then, it’s been a matter of figuring out what works, what doesn’t, and getting comfortable with calling myself a full-time artist.

ABN: I didn’t know you had a retail background. I’m sure it comes into play so many times and in so many different ways. You might not have the accounting degree your dad suggested, but you learned about balance sheets, profit & loss, pricing, and so much more from your retail management experience for sure.

Van Atta: Exactly. I was part of a designer brand. I wasn’t selling $35 khakis. I was selling $1,000 jackets and other pieces in that price range. So even in that world, the clientele was different, the approach was different. I see a lot of things mirrored in how I view who looks at my work. I sit back and just pick up little clues — and so far, that tactic has had good results.

ABN: Alissa, what is your work philosophy and how do you decide what to create? How does that work philosophy impact the art that you create?

Van Atta: Basically, my main philosophy is show up every day. So even if I’m not feeling like things are coming together, I go back to sketching and thinking up ideas. Or maybe doing the stuff that I hate doing, the behind the scenes things like managing inventory, managing the bank account. It doesn’t have to always be in the studio, but my frame of mind is always centered on get something done, at least feel like you’ve put in a day’s work. I basically like to do that in the beginning of the day, so I can go: “Whoosh, I’m done!” Then I can go from there.

Ideas are something that sticks with you. You’re not off the clock. It’s always marinating. Even just getting some ideas out that have been pestering. It’s just a matter of doing something that show you’ve accomplished something in some way, even if it’s just making notes. Just showing up every day. And I also like to challenge myself. If something didn’t happen or if it’s a timing technique, then that drives me to work on those things.

ABN: There are so many artists that do exactly what you’re saying — make a plan and stick with it every day. Whether it’s starting the day with the management things, like planning for fairs, creating invoices, reaching out, creating social media posts, all of those things that must be done to keep the business moving forward. Then moving on to creating. Or the other way around — whatever works best for each person. Your advice to work every day, getting to it, and being productive are keys to success.

What do you think was the best advice you’ve ever received and how have you used that?

Van Atta: During my senior seminar, I was very fortunate to have a mentor who was also my senior seminar instructor and my instructor for abstract art. I didn’t listen. I’m learning the hard way now and remembering his words. Showing up every day, working on developing yourself as an artist, and loosen up. Loosening up not only  my technique, because I used to be very precise, but also loosening up my frame of mind.  Basically, anything I’ve ever set out to do, the plan goes one way and I go another way. So no matter how much I think it should be this way, I’ve learned to loosen up my expectations and just go with the flow. I have to remind myself of that all the time. It’s not a failure if it didn’t work out. I learned something different.

ABN: Great perspective! Sometimes you have a perceived notion of what something should be, but maybe you haven’t explored everything it could be. And that’s really what you’re talking about. I think that there’s a learning in all of that. Absolutely. So what do you do to market yourself and your art?

Van Atta: Basically, being visible as possible as I can be, whether through my website or Instagram. Instagram is a beast — it’s harder now to get an audience. But it’s a place where people can find you and discover your art. It’s another little portfolio. The main thing with marketing, I’ve learned, is meeting people. So getting into art organizations, doing fairs. You never know who you’ll meet, who and a connection that will benefit you. It’s an opportunity to get to know a person one on one. Sometimes it’s the weirdest thing of who knows who and it ends up being a small world. Or “Yeah, I’m an artist” and things spark from there. But growing it organically is what I’ve been focused on because it’s the proven method of what’s gotten me sales, collectors, and a following.

ABN: At the art fairs, I notice that you are very engaged. You’re right there, you’re standing up, you’re very approachable. And usually when I walk by, you’re talking to somebody, whether it’s another artist, maybe it’s the exhibitor that’s next to you. But I think that that’s a really good point because you don’t ever know where you’ll find a great connection. Maybe they’re just visiting the fair, looking at art, and they have an experience with you. And six months from now, they’re contacting you and asking, “Do you still have that piece, or is there a piece like that one?” And you don’t ever know what all of those connections, how they might play out in a myriad of ways.

Just one more question. Any particular advice as an emerging artist that you would give an aspiring artist?

Van Atta: It’s tough. And oftentimes, you’re your own worst enemy. So my advice would be to surround yourself with people that genuinely want you to succeed. People that support you. And remind yourself that it won’t happen overnight. This is a marathon. So if you don’t do great one day at some event, it does not mean it’s over or you’re a complete failure. We all play mind tricks with ourselves. So it’s just reminding yourself to just show up every day. It’s all a learning experience and  keep moving forward.

ABN: Really great advice. It’s been terrific having a conversation with you. One of the reasons for your success is that if you are enjoying what you’re doing and you have a positive attitude. Sure, it can be scary. It’s your career, it’s your livelihood. But working it each day helps you meet the challenges.

Thank you so much. It was great getting to know a more about Alissa Van Atta, the artist.

The post Meet the Artist: Alissa Van Atta appeared first on Art Business News.

Q: Introduce yourself — who you are and what is your vision as an artist?

Q: What artist(s) inspire you?

Q: What is the best advice you’ve received?

Q: When you are not working, where can we find you?

Q: What does exhibiting at Art Santa Fe 2024 mean to you?

Art Santa Fe is incredibly important to me. It’s my first time in the southwestern United States sharing my work. Im out of my comfort zone. I have no established base here, no fans, yet grateful to be here. My plan over the past two years is to get out of my Florida comfort zone and start growing in other areas. Santa Fe was a perfect match. I’ve put a ton of heart into the Kress Collection Gallery.

You can find my art and journey on Instagram @mattkressart and website https://mattkress.art

The post Meet the Artist: Matt Kress, The Kress Collection Gallery appeared first on Art Business News.

Q: Introduce yourself — who you are and what your vision as an artist is? What is your background?

A: A retired architect residing in New Mexico for most of the last 50 years, I am living a lifelong calling, to be a fine artist. I believe we cannot live without art.  Whether it is music, film, dance, or visual art, it feeds our soul. I strive to make art that reaches, touches, and connects us to ourselves and others. I have chosen the language of abstract art, a language like no other, with no dictionary to translate it but is open to each individual’s imagination and interpretation. Unlike architecture, there are no constraints. Total freedom is a refreshing change.

My background significantly influences my art. I was born and raised in Pittsburgh, PA, a place with honest, hardworking people. My dream, even as a young child, was to become an architect. With encouragement from my family, I attended Franklin and Marshall College where I studied art history and perfected studio skills that prepared me to pursue an M Arch from the University of New Mexico. I became licensed and through a very successful and rewarding, 40-year architectural practice, I was able to design a diverse portfolio of projects and achieve a fellowship in the American Institute of Architects. In 2020, I retired and now realizing another dream, to be a fine artist.

Q: What is your work philosophy and how does that impact your work?

A: My architectural training and practice taught me a way of thinking. I value simplicity. I’m fascinated by geometry, strong shape and form. My focus is composition. I’m not a fan of making “wallpaper” by creating amorphous or repetitive patterns. I believe, like a good building considers and organizes both the positive (interior) and negative (exterior) space, a good painting does the same. Regarding color and contrast, the high desert environment of the southwest inspired and awakened my creative sensibilities. What can be more visually powerful than an orange sky with purple clouds? Or the lush green, life-filled forest of the Rio Grande moving through rocky earthen, parched mountains? Those contrasts and others are compelling.

Q: What artist(s) inspire you?

A: I am most inspired by Richard Diebenkorn, a genius in composition and color. Never constrained by formalistic rules, he used the entire canvas in unpredictable ways. He was a master of creating strong shapes and forms. He was not afraid to use any color adjacent to any other. His use of line created movement while also contrasting simple planes of color. Like many great artists, he was a rule-breaker for his time. We know he challenged the status quo at the University of New Mexico when he was there in 1950. No adobes adorned with chiles for him. That inspires me.

I’m inspired by many other artists but most notably, the dramatic work of JMW Turner, the color and techniques of Cezanne, Monet and Matisse, and the boldness and simplicity of Franz Kline. Lately, I am enamored with the spontaneity of contemporary artist, David Mankin.

Q: What is the best advice you’ve received?

A: My architectural training taught me to always say, “What if” never relying on one idea. But the best advice that I struggle to comply with daily tells me to not overthink, to follow my own instincts, and to not be afraid to make an ugly painting. Mistakes are opportunities.

Q: When you are not working, where can we find you?

A: Residing in Albuquerque, you can find me with my family and friends enjoying New Mexico’s scenery and perfect weather. Or traveling to see and experience new places that recharge me.

Q: What does exhibiting at Art Santa Fe 2024 mean to you?

A: I’ve been painting in earnest now for about 5 years. Although I have successfully shown my work locally, I’m exhibiting in Art Santa Fe to finally test the waters with a broader audience. The truth is, that artists are constantly looking for validation. I hope I get it here.

The post Art Santa Fe 2024 Spotlight Artist Recipient: Bill Sabatini appeared first on Art Business News.

Q: Introduce yourself — who you are and what your vision as an artist is? What is your background?

A: My name is Vivienne Riggio, I am a Santa Fe-based sculptor. My artistic journey is a testament to a life infused with observation and the transformation of the mundane into the extraordinary. As a way of manifesting my vision, I fabricate large-scale mythical creatures that connect us to another time, another place.

I draw from my experience in operatic costuming and apparel design and use traditional Southwestern embroidery techniques, sheep’s wool up-cycled paper, and unusual objects.

My desire is that these shaman-like sculptures evoke a departure from conventional imagery to an unfamiliar place of wonder. Ultimately, I hope the viewer connects with that other place, a departure from their day-to-day thinking. For some these pieces take on a lifelike presence and others just enjoy the craftsmanship and appreciate them just as a work of art.

Born in Murphysboro, Illinois, my path to becoming an artist was as intuitive as it was inevitable. From my earliest memories, I was captivated by shapes, images, and designs, finding intrigue and expression in the arts from a tender age. My childhood, characterized by introspection and a deep internalization of my surroundings, laid the foundation for a unique artistic language, which I began articulating through three-dimensional art as early as five years old.

My grandparents emigrated to the US from Southern Italy and eventually settled in the Midwest. Their daily lives, though extreme from what Sicilia offered, gave them sustenance and a sense of belonging to something larger. 

In the late fifties, my parents heeded the California call and settled in the Bay Area, a small town ripening with revolutionary fervor. As teens, my siblings and I drank up the culture outside our front door questioning nothing and everything.

This is a small taste of what I inherited and was exposed to. As a young girl, I stood back and observed family dynamics, Catholicism, and academics and spent much of my time creating unusual art as a way of processing and expressing. It’s been that way ever since.

In my late thirties, I discovered New Mexico after a summer of picking fruit in British Columbia. Once landed outside of Albuquerque, I worked at the state fair, at restaurants, and wrote short stories. After a gig at the Santa Fe Opera as a seasonal worker in the costume shop, my artistic vision leaped toward larger dimensional pieces. I eventually settled in Santa Fe, but not before going back and forth to the West Coast and moving where my work took me.

I dedicated my career to labor rights, traveling to factories throughout Latin America, Asia, and North America, interviewing workers and factory owners. I’m now a permanent resident and live a stone’s throw from the Santa Fe River.

Q: What is your work philosophy and how does that impact your work?

A: The core of my artistic philosophy lies in the genuine, unfiltered interaction with the world around me. Whether I am surrounded by the tranquility of nature or immersed in the vibrant energy of a city, every experience is a wellspring of inspiration. My art is a means of distilling these experiences, transforming them into a language of shapes, textures, and forms that resonate on a visceral level. This process is not just about creation but is a form of communication, a way of sharing my perspective and inviting others to see the world through a different lens.

What motivates me to create is the endless potential for transformation—an object, a piece of fabric, or a fleeting image can become a conduit for profound expressions and conversations. I aim to create art that not only captivates visually but also engages on an emotional and intellectual level, prompting reflection and eliciting a sense of wonder. Through my work, I strive to offer a moment of connection, an opportunity for viewers to engage with their surroundings and their inner selves in new and unexpected ways.

Q: What artist(s) inspire you?

A: Magdalena Abakanowicz for her ingenuity to repurpose and courage to go big. Bette Saar to bring renewed life to the discarded. Louise Bourgeois for her courage to express sensuality and objects that cause a reaction in viewers. Graciela Iturbide- for her photographs of rural Mexican women. Christian LeCroix and Alexander McQueen for their otherworldly fashion

The post Art Santa Fe 2024 Spotlight Recipient: Vivienne Riggio appeared first on Art Business News.

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Q: Introduce yourself – who you are and what your vision as an artist is? What is your background?

A: More than a printmaker, or painter, I think of myself as an image maker. My background is in fashion design and pattern making. I worked in the ‘rag trade’ designing clothing and traveling all over the third world to see how well these designs were put together.

Q: What is your work philosophy and how does that impact your work?

A: I enjoy working in the studio on various media including printmaking and painting as well as collage.  I am drawn to historic female characters; strong women and what I imagine that they would wear.

I create, I do not quantify or measure time, I work until the artwork speaks to me and tells me it is complete. It’s a joyful calling. I know that my audience is the world’s smallest and that I am not attempting a mass-market appeal. I listen to my imagination and I try to stay on a flow that avoids tributaries and tangents. What I ask myself each time I come near completion of an artwork is: is this piece remarkable? That’s how I measure.

Q: What artist(s) inspire you?

A: I am inspired by many of the modernists, especially the Santa Fe and Taos modernists of the early 20^th century. Also, I love to look at ancient manuscripts and illuminations for pattern, and composition. The Ukiyo-e Japanese woodcut print artists are always a delight to look at and I am drawn to contemporary public-art artists such as Shepard Fairey and emerging black artists such as Delita Martin and Bisa Butler.

Q: What is the best advice you’ve received?

A: The best advice I’ve received is from a professor in my Masters Degree program who told me to see more and paint less. On a more business-of-art direction I listen to Seth Godin, Akimbo podcast and find value in his philosophy about the world’s smallest audience and being authentic and remarkable with my work.

Q: What does exhibiting at Art Santa Fe 2024 mean to you?

A: Exhibiting at Art Santa Fe means a lot to me in that it is an opportunity to show with an Event Company that has great experience and a track record of putting on well-marketed and well-designed shows of high-caliber artists. I am hoping to find a small audience of galleries and collectors who are interested in purchasing and representing my artwork. 

The post Art Santa Fe Spotlight Recipient: Ouida Touchon appeared first on Art Business News.

The post Art Santa Fe 2024 Shines the Spotlight on Four Amazing Artists appeared first on Art Business News.

Q: Introduce yourself — who you are and what your vision as an artist is?

A: My vision as an artist is to create captivating and impactful images that not only showcase the beauty of fashion but also tell compelling stories and leave a lasting impression on the viewers.

I am driven by a passion for storytelling and a meticulous approach to detail, which greatly influences my work as a photographer.

Q: What is your background?

A: Growing up on a rural farm in West Virginia and having a cultural heritage rooted in Northern Europe and Germany have greatly influenced my artistic vision. The simplicity of rural life and the connection with animals have shaped my perspective, while my heritage has given me a sense of pride and a connection to a rich artistic tradition. 

These elements are reflected in my art, showcasing a deep appreciation for nature, a strong work ethic, and a connection to my roots.

Q: What is your work philosophy and how does that impact your work?

A: I believe that as a photographer, my work is about more than just capturing beauty. It’s about telling compelling stories and creating visually stunning narratives. I emphasize meticulous planning and collaboration with my team to bring creative visions to life. Authenticity and individuality are at the heart of my photography, as I aim to capture the true essence of my subjects.

Attention to detail, mood, and emotion are essential elements in creating impactful images. Continuous learning and growth fuel my creativity, allowing me to stay innovative and relevant in the industry. Overall, my work philosophy revolves around storytelling, collaboration, authenticity, attention to detail, and continuous learning.

Q: What artist(s) inspire you?

A: As a photographer, I draw inspiration from a wide range of talented and visionary artists in the industry. These artists have not only influenced my work, but also pushed me to continually push the boundaries of my own creativity.

Here are a few examples of the photographers who inspire me: Richard Avedon, Helmut Newton, Irving Penn, Peter Lindbergh, Steven Meisel, Time Walker, and Herb Ritts.

Q: What is the best advice you’ve received?

A: I believe in staying true to my unique vision and style. Trusting my instincts and not being swayed by trends or external opinions has allowed me to develop an authentic voice. By staying true to myself, I create meaningful and impactful images that reflect my artistic vision.

Q: When you are not working, where can we find you?

A: My life is a beautiful blend of art, nature, continuous learning, and cherished moments with loved ones. I find inspiration in art exhibitions, galleries, and museums, immersing myself in the creativity of other talented artists. Nature rejuvenates my spirit and fuels my creativity. I actively seek opportunities to expand my knowledge and skills, attending workshops and exploring new creative domains. 

Spending quality time with loved ones brings me joy and fulfillment. This harmonious combination enriches my life and inspires my artistic endeavors.

Q: What does exhibiting at Artexpo New York 2024 mean to you?

A: Artexpo New York is an exciting opportunity for me to share my curated collection of photographs with a wide audience. I’m eager to showcase my unique style and storytelling through imagery and connect with fellow artists and industry experts. Being selected for this exhibition validates my talent and hard work, and I look forward to receiving feedback and growing as a photographer. Artexpo New York 2024 is a milestone that will allow me to gain recognition and expand my network within the art and gallery industry. I’m grateful for this opportunity and excited about the possibilities it holds.

The post Meet the Artist – Artexpo New York Spotlight Recipient: Greg Lotus Gallery appeared first on Art Business News.

Q: Introduce yourself — who you are and what your vision as an artist is?

A: I was born to be a Artist but actually didn’t realize it until I was in my late 20s. I was born in Bedford Stuyvesant Brooklyn, New York on Mother’s Day. My mother was a beautiful quiet woman and a great Seamstress. Her mother was also a great seamstress.

As a child, I was blessed with dreams that transported me to a realm of wonder and mystery. In these dreams, I encountered ethereal black sillhouette images of pure-hearted Ethopian people. Their beauty, kindness, and purity of soul left an incredible mark on my young heart. 

One fateful day, as they approached me, I felt an overwhelming surge of love emanating from their presence. It was then that I realized their purpose.

Q: What is your work philosophy and how does that impact your work?

LOVE and supporting one another. With most of the money we made we were able to fund and support many people, non-profit profit organizations that help others that are down and out, poor folk in the street and the bowery and all kinds of people in dire need of help. Our aim for this upcoming distinguished show is that whatever sales we make 50 percent will go to a school in Ethiopia for the needy.

I honestly and truly love making story textile needlework art and paintings because in my heart I have so many stories full of love, peace, pain, tragedy, hate, and also stories of hope, faith, and taking risk. I know there will be other stories I’ll have to share. I want to share them through my love and gift of textile needleworked Folk Art. 

Q: What artist(s) inspire you?

A: The Artist whose work absolutely inspires me is the artist that I am collaborating with in this show. Teklemariam. 

Q: What is the best advice you’ve received?

A: The best advice I ever received was from the gallery owner who represented me many years ago. He was smart and experienced. He treated me very well and was the person who advanced my art career. 

Q: When you are not working, where can we find you?

A: When I’m not working you can find me working on my little 23-acre farm in upstate New York in Palatine Bridge. It’s an Old Fashioned 17th-century colonial agricultural hamlet. 

Q: What does exhibiting at Artexpo New York 2024 mean to you?

A: To be given the privilege and honor to participate in this important art fair is more than I hoped for. Unfortunately, my husband fell ill and for the past 8 years, I wasn’t able to do any art shows or events since he was basically bedbound and could no longer walk. He died 8 months ago. I love and miss him terribly. He retired 22 years ago from the Port Authority of NY & NJ. He was a Senior Draftsman there for 33 years. Our Son Richard Allen Jr. was killed in Tower 1 when the airplanes struck into the top of the towers. My beloved husband escaped by the skin of his teeth. He had to walk all the way home once he made it out. He served in the Army for six years after graduating from high school. He was given a Military Funeral with honors and respectively buried proudly and Honorably in Evergreen Cementary 10 minutes from where we live. God Bless you.

The post Meet the Artist – Artexpo New York Spotlight Recipient: Denise Allen appeared first on Art Business News.