Contemporary Figurative Artist
Priscilla Nelson is recognized for her bold, figurative oil paintings featuring rich, flowing textures and postures that evoke a wide range of sensations and emotions. 

A self taught artist, Priscilla began painting as a child. At age 15 she had her first sold out show in Reston, Virginia, and at 16, she was honored to participate in a program for promising artists at the Smithsonian Institute in Washington, DC.

Today, the majority of Nelson’s work explores textiles and clothing, and how they convey moods and attitudes. Nelson says that her early inspiration came from her love of “people watching” and studying how individuals are able to exude such varied attitudes through what they wear or don’t wear.  Nelson also creates distinctive mixed media pieces as well as commissioned portraits, murals, landscapes and pencil drawings. 

Nelson’s art is currently featured in private and public collections throughout the United States and abroad. Priscilla Nelson currently resides in Atlanta, Georgia.

"I capture snapshot moments in my paintings that viewers may interpret in their own way. I have always been fascinated with people watching, and as a result, it has greatly influenced the direction of my art. I paint what people surround themselves with---their clothes.  I believe that people select how they want to be seen, and they use their clothing to make that statement. It may be who they are. It may be who they want to be. But, it is the observer who “interprets” their presentation.

The human figure has become secondary in my paintings---sometimes partially shown and at other times totally eliminated---to focus on the garment and color chosen as well as the density and the movement of the fabric. My paintings convey the moods and attitudes that people exude---whether it is sensuality, playfulness, style or power.

I capture these snapshots with oil on canvas, at times taking as many as 30 layers of thin paint to express the depth of texture, richness and movement.

I also create mixed media works that are typically “faceless masks.”  These pieces break free from how the mind may dress us and reveals our mind’s imagination,  saying much about who we are." Priscilla Nelson