I Paint What I Love
By Nancy Morgan
Much has been written debating the dilemma many artists face as to whether they should paint what they see or what they know. Does the artist clearly see what they are looking at, do they have the artistic ability to translate that image into a work of art. There are equally good discussions supporting these views: should the artist follow their heart and paint what they know or step outside of their comfort zone and challenge themselves. I have followed this with great interest and what I have personally gathered from this conversation and ultimately decided to do with the information, is paint what I know but not until I really see it. In my world, my brush is my sewing machine my palette is fabric. I am a fabric artist and have been perfecting my art for the past twenty years. When I started this journey there was no doubt what my subject matter would be. I was born and raised here in the Seacoast and have seen the countless changes that have occurred. I thought I truly knew and appreciated every aspect of the cities and towns, the rivers, mountains, and sea. But once I decided to capture these scenes in fabric, it was like a filter had been removed from my eyes, everything became clearer and brighter, the details more distinct. Suddenly I am seeing these familiar scenes in new ways. I then translate this fresh image into a piece of art utilizing fabric, thread, and tulle, so others can have the opportunity to view the scenes in the same way that I do. When I look at Ceres Street, I see a street full of vibrant colors, steeped in the history of Portsmouth. I see the South End with its peaceful calm waters and intimate settings, and the Oceanic Hotel on Star Island, beautifully regal, stoic, and timeless. These are all scenes that I have known for years, but now I am really seeing them, as for the first time. And when I begin to see things as they really are, not as I ‘know’ they are, my work becomes more intimate.
There are so many beautiful places, not only in the United States but throughout the world, which have breathtaking scenes that I am sure would easily translate to fabric art, but I have never been to these places, and as such do not know them. So, when asked if the subject of my art is primarily local scenes, I humbly and confidently answer, Yes! I paint what I see, what I know and what I love.