Local Artist Nancy Cicchetti to showcase paintings at Town Books

San Anselmo resident Nancy Cicchetti will be showcasing her paintings at Town Books in downtown San Anselmo. The show will begin on April 1st and continue through till the 30th of May. A “meet the artist” reception will take place on Friday April 17th from 7pm till 9pm.

Nancy Cicchetti has been an artist for as long as she can remember. From elementary and high school arts classes, to courses at College of Marin and finally a BA in art from San Francisco State, Nancy’s passion for creating art has continued to thrive in her expressive paintings and prints.

Be it people, street scenes, nature or a reflective mood, Cicchetti is always looking for inspiration. Nancy comments. “My artistic process begins with an idea, a spark, some photo I find or come across that compels me to incorporate into a painting. Some images are so strong, that I go on to use them in my prints.” Nancy paints in oils choosing larger canvases to allow for building up layers of color and glazes. She also uses etching and monotypes for printing more detail-oriented images utilizing aquatint for shading. While the style of her work has not changed much over the years, her subject matter has. Nancy remarks. “I have painted my daughter a lot over the years, but now I find inspiration in a variety of people and places.”

Inspired by Edward Hopper for the quiet drama of his work, Cicchetti comments. “His houses and people speak volumes about the human condition. I love his shadows and stark lighting.” Nancy also admires how artist Francis Bacon contorts the figure and face to leave a lasting impression on the viewer. In keeping with the idea of creating that lasting impression, she believes that there is always a singular feeling that motivates her paintings. Nancy remarks. “ I have come to respect these sensations, letting them guide me through the process. Each painting is a story to investigate. My job is to begin the story, allowing the viewer to take it to the next step.”

More of Nancy’s work can be viewed at http://www.ncicchetti.com/index.html