JACKSON HOLE, WYO – These two will be ones to watch. Richard Rodriguez and Natalie Connell were named by the Art Association as emerging artists for the 2017 Art Fairs.
The Emerging Artist category was designed specifically for artists who have limited or no experience exhibiting and selling their artwork as a way to encourage budding artists. The selection process began in March, when a professional jury of local artists, curators, and gallery owners converged to hand-select artists to be featured at the 2017 Art Fair. One emerging artist is chosen per fair. Winners are provided with a tent set up by the Wort Hotel and dinner for two, 50% discounted booth fee, and mentoring opportunities from seasoned Art Fair artists.
“The Art Association is excited to offer this opportunity to local artist, Natalie, and Richard who is a state neighbor,” said Molly Fetters, director of programs and events.
Connell, the August Art Fair emerging artist, came to Jackson in 2009 and has been steadily adding to her portfolio.
“I have been happy to call Jackson home for the last eight years, and am thoroughly in love with the natural beauty of the area. It is from here that I derive the inspiration for most of my art,” Connell said. “In the last year and a half, I have been focusing much of my energy on painting and growing as an artist. I have been primarily exploring bringing together ink, wood burning, acrylic, and most recently watercolor, on wood canvas, as it yields a unique look, and I love the entire creative process.”
Rodriguez is the July Art Fair emerging artist. He lives and works in Golden, Colorado.
“All of my pieces contain a bit of myself. What I see every day is likely different than what others may see,” Rodriguez said. “My horse or horses in a field, an abandoned building or a power plant have a meaning that isn’t noticed in this time of technology and overwhelming information. I paint so others may realize the silent grace, rhythm and peacefulness that exist in this busy world.”
