EAST Interview: Stephanie Nance

Like a lot of people in Austin, artist Stephanie Nance has a great affinity for the airstream trailer. These vintage 1960s wagons have been the subject of several of her paintings, prints, and postcards, and she even fashioned a studio out of one for a while. Part of her beloved "Americana" series, Nance's airstreams are sprightly, whimsical, colorful, and based on her representations, would be totally believable as the main character in a animated film.

Still dear to heart, Nance has moved on from airstreams for now (she sold hers last year) and has returned to the East Austin Studio this year with a new collection of paintings that feature a myriad of botanicals, including cacti and flowers native to this region, and a few bird varieties. The same wonderful illustrative quality is here as with her previous work -- a steady line mixed with bright colors and patterns.

Nance holds a BFA in ceramics and has a solid background in drawing and metals. For the past decade, she has focused on mixed media painting—drawing on her multi-disciplinary experience to incorporate collage, pattern, illustration, design, and texture into her work.

Stephanie Nance will be a guest artist of Lisa Crowder (jewelry) at 2710 East Cesar Chavez, #43a on the EAST map. Stop by and get four for one! This year, Lisa and Stephanie are sharing studio space with Ryan McKerley (ceramics) and Edmund Martinez (mixed media).

How does your experience with ceramics and metals inform your painting?
It began, simply, by drawing the forms that I produced in clay and metal. Then, my interest turned towards the surfaces, wanting to transcend my materials. Also, ceramics and silversmithing are very process-based mediums. My paintings are very much rooted in this idea, using myriad techniques to achieve my surfaces. I’m happiest while creating. Trusting my intuition and letting it guide me is my biggest challenge. Ironically, my painting surfaces and drawings are now influencing my current desires in ceramics.

What is the inspiration behind your "Americana" series?
Initially, it began as fascination with portable living as well as the impeccable design and efficiency Airstreams have. Plus, they are metal and shiny, or sometimes rusted and fabulous. My interest morphed into slight obsession once I began drawing them—they have such great line and form (and rivets, which make me giddy). I’m also drawn to old neon signs and worn type. I have a need to capture it in my own visual way.