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about Nicole's Studio...
" I moved to New York City from CT (1977) to attend Parson's School of Design while living in SoHo. Eventually, I ended up pursuing a career on Madison Avenue becoming an associate creative director at several ad agencies creating TV commercials for consumer giants such as Procter & Gamble, Texaco, Minolta, Johnson and Johnson and other pharmaceutical companies. Essentially I sketched storyboards with a writer and presented the ideas to clients. On approval we would hire a film director then film the commercials in NY, LA or even Ireland. I mention this because creating storyboards for the television medium became a launching pad for my paintings. When I wasn't in film production, I painted watercolors which I displayed and sold out of my family's NYC restaurant, Beach Cafe on 70th and Second Ave. In 1996 my husband (Parker Kennedy) had the crazy idea of moving to his hometown in Raleigh and opening an Italian restaurant. We literally pulled up roots and opened Caffe Luna in 1996. I have been painting full time ever since. Which brings me back to storytelling, I am by nature drawn to drama and have honed a lifelong habit of eavesdropping and "innocent" voyeurism. If you have seen my Italian scenes (especially in Caffé Luna) over the years and most recently my exploration of "Beach People" (for which I am grateful to have received a fair amount of publicity), the storytelling and voyeurism becomes most evident. Being part Italian, I am naturally drawn to Italian people and culture (food, wine, caffes!). Quite honestly, I have a need to relive and recreate moments in Italy . These ongoing oils bring to reality the enduring beauty and intrigue of places like; Portofino, Venice, Tuscany, Florence, Lake Como, Bellagio, Rome, etc. I am a multitasker by nature and paint in both oils and acrylic, with brushes and/or palette knives on canvas, panel or masonite depending on the subject. I paint a great deal "en plein aire" (literally out in the open air). I teach many workshops here in Raleigh, but also try to take classes myself from acclaimed peers. Learning never ends and the greatest joy is watching art evolve from piece to piece. Nicole White Kennedy Click here for Interviews Page |
...about Nicole's Art Gallery. MAKING A BEAUTIFUL DIFFERENCE. Now in our 9th year we have evolved into an art gallery different from the rest. I have been told by many clients and visitors that the atmosphere here is friendly and never intimidating. Dare we say it is fun to buy art here. Whether it is an original painting in your home, or an office decorated with local artists on a Raleigh theme, 100 giclees in patients rooms, the right frame at the right price, learning how to paint in oils...we have heard time and again that our artists, staff and art classes have made a difference in peoples lives. OUR ARTISTS ARE CAREFULLY SELECTED: I am honored to represent over 30 artists and artisans and be a factor in their emergence or continuing artistic growth. A select group of artists in a wide range of styles and media are chosen to be represented. Committment to growth in their works is what we are all about! Come check out our talented artists represented here. CORPORATE SOLUTIONS WITH A FRESH PERSPECTIVE: - I spent over 20 years on Madison Avenue advertising national brands before painting full time, so I understand that making decisions on artwork has to work on many levels, appeal to many demographics and work with any budget. What kind of impression do you want to make in your work environment? I can promise you that what hangs on the walls can make a beautiful difference in your 9-5! ART CLASSES: 2007 has started out as a big year with some turning points here at the gallery. We are now bringing in many artists to teach workshops from local to nationally acclaimed, Rick McClure and Lori Putnam. Teachers include; Dan Nelson, Cathy Martin, Rocky Alexander, myself, Jonathan Peedin, Figurative anf beginner. John Silver comes for special workshops. The gallery is bustling with activity and creativity. Associate Gallery Director and Workshop Coordinator, Kelly Frost handles all of the classes and registration. FRAMING: We have also brought onfull time professional framing consultant Cindy Gordon. We now offer custom framing (and even ready made frames) right here on site at honest prices. Click on the link and check out our framing page. After you take a tour of the artwork, take a quick tour of the gallery The 2200 sq. ft space is occasionally available through Caffe Luna Catering for a fee to host a seminar, fund-raiser, any function in a less predictable and more relaxed setting. |
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Solo & 2 Person Exhibits: |
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