Studio 9170, a community art space, has blossomed into a thriving common ground for a group of artists. The group consists of retired art teachers, grandmothers, former corporate executives and professional artists. The studio is open by appointment and on the first Tuesday of each month to view the artists at work. Each artist-in-residence, all chosen by an extensive interview process, occupies a 14-by-14-foot space in the unassuming building where they create art. For the artists, though, the space gives them a place to come together as a community to create and work. The studio is closed to the public except twice a year for their art shows. Nancy Smitherman is one of the original artists who occupies a space at Studio 9170. Nancy began her career as an art teacher in the Caddo Parish school system. As an accomplished artist, Nancy is passionate about creating. She received her BS degree in Art Education from Louisiana State University and continued her education at Southern Methodist University studying printmaking, drawing and pottery. Nancy also studied water color and pottery at the University of Colorado at Boulder. She has studied under various outstanding artists such as Doug Walton, Wolf Kahn, and Ann Templeton.  

Reflecting a sense of a “new impressionism” which vibrates with excitement, vitality and dimension, her paintings come alive as her representation of the real world is combined with the vigor of unexpected color.  Most viewers cannot pass her paintings without being captivated by their uniqueness.  Her paintings hang in both private and corporate collections.  She began painting when she was nine years old with her grandmother who was also an artist.  It was always her desire to “be an artist” when she grew up.  Many of her compositions were done on location with other artists as they traveled in France, Greece, Guatemala, and San Miguel, Mexico. Giving back through the teaching the arts is part of Nancy’s passion. In her current teachings, Nancy’s students learned shapes, proportions, patterns and texture. As well as what they needed in their hearts to be the best people they can be. Noting of her classes, Nancy states, “Art promotes kindness, patience and love. The greatest compliment my clients can give me is to say my paintings sing to them when they look at them. The beauty I see in creation inspires me and I consider it a privilege to attempt to reflect the divine in my work.”

Nancy Smitherman Art
https://www.facebook.com/artbynancysmitherman/ 

Studio 9170
https://www.facebook.com/Studio-9170-305839276209850/