If there’s one thing you’ll never find Nancy Bossert doing, it’s watching paint dry. She usually has several pieces going at a time and switches from one to another — or even to another medium completely, such as clay — to make the most of her time in the studio. It’s no surprise then that her body of work is extensive and varied.
Nancy’s work is on display in the children’s wing through August 3, and she’ll be hosting two ART@EPL events in July: An outdoor, hands-on expressionistic painting workshop July 9 (currently full), and an art talk July 11, where she’ll discuss her work, creative process, inspirations and career.
Recently, we asked Nancy to tell us more about her background and evolution as an artist…
When did you know you were an artist? Tell us a little about your early path and what drew you to art.
I drew from the very beginning. I know it was probably steady from 4 or 5 years old on. Just loved being creative. I would use any materials to paint with or sculpt — once even scraping oil/grease off the garage floor to paint with. I found that it moved smoothly and gave me a number of brown and black values. I was never stopped by my mother.
When and why did you decide to pursue art as a career?
There was never any other choice in my mind to not proceed with an art career. I have a BS from Kutztown University and an MA from Northern Illinois University.
What’s been your biggest challenge?
I can’t say there was ever a hardest challenge. Of course, many things came into my life that might have brought ups and downs. I was fortunate to rear three wonderful children and still make the most of my studio and painting time. I am a type-A personality and I love to work. I maintain a well-stocked studio so that I can easily move from different types of work two-dimensional work, stoneware pieces, and even jewelry. If we travel, I keep my hands busy with knitting and crochet work. My hands are never idle.
What successes or achievements are you most proud of?
My children and being a creative thinker. In the studio, I push creative thought with techniques. My own children never went into the “Arts,” but they are all creative thinkers as well.
Did the pandemic have an impact on your work?
No, the pandemic didn’t really bother me as far as my work. I am pretty quiet in the studio, so I just painted. I also do all my own framing to help keep costs down. I feel I need to learn something new everyday.
What’s your advice for anyone who wants to explore art, but can’t seem to find the time or feels intimidated by a blank canvas?
The idea of not finding the time is too remote to my thinking. I just find the time, or make the time. It isn’t that I work fast, I just get the most out of my day. I am in the studio seven days a week, unless I have another obligation. My head is full of ideas, sometimes I just can’t get them all down. I generally have five pieces going at once, so I am never waiting for drying time on one.
Anything else you’d like to share with readers?
I would say to viewers, don’t expect one thing out of me…you are getting my brain process and I love switching it up.
I am looking forward to painting with some of the individuals are coming to the workshop at the library.
[You can learn more about Nancy Bossert and view more of her work at her website, Facebook and Instagram.]
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ART@EPL is the library’s exciting partnership with the Lehigh Art Alliance and the Lehigh Valley Arts Council. The series is funded through a grant from PA Partners in the Arts, making it possible for area residents to enjoy free art lectures and workshops from local artists working in pastels, charcoal, sculpture, and watercolor among others.
Visit the ART@EPL page to see all the artists who have led workshops and exhibited work at the library as part of ART@EPL.
