I approach the subject of my painting as though to sculpt with a brush. I study how the light washes across the form and the shadows either wrap tightly around or dance away. Does the light land boldly or as a gentle touch? Does it reflect the color of the sky or illuminate the rainbow in a drop of dew? I find myself in awe of God’s creations illuminated, chasing the light with my eyes.

Monica Nelson

Monica Nelson

At the easel

Monica currently resides in the San Joaquin Valley, in Bakersfield, CA with her husband and two daughters.

Monica Nelson provides private and corporate works on commission.

EDUCATION

1988-1990 Kent State University, Graphic Design and Journalism, Illustration Minor – Kent, Ohio

WORKSHOPS

2009 Studio Incamminati – Nelson Shanks
Lea Colie Wight & Natalie Italiano
Leona Shanks
Advanced Painting Workshop Intensive
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

2006 Anthony Ryder
Portrait Painting Seminar
Andreeva Portrait Academy
Santa Fe, New Mexico

2006 Ignat Ignatov
Limited Palette Alla Prima Portrait Painting
Los Angeles Academy of Figurative Arts
Los Angeles, California

2005 Anthony Ryder
Portrait Drawing Workshop
Los Angeles Academy of Figurative Arts
Los Angeles, California

Memberships: California Art Club; Oil Painters of America, Bakersfield Art Association

Contact Monica by email

661.364.5724