News Release
Oklahoma artist tells stories through his art
March 28, 2007
FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT:
Ann Dee Lee
Public Information Director
Oklahoma Arts Council
(405) 521-2931
anndee@arts.ok.gov
Oklahoma City, OK – When Oklahoma City illustrator Christopher Nick talks to school students he tells them that it is imperative that they pursue what is in their hearts. “When I was in grade school, I was never given the opportunity to study or do art. I had no idea that telling stories through my art could bring such satisfaction,” said Nick.
His exhibit at the Oklahoma State Capitol will be on display in the East Gallery at the Capitol from April 2 through June 3, 2007. Curated by the Oklahoma Arts Council, the East Gallery is located on the 1st floor of the Capitol and is open every day from 8:30-5:00.
Nick describes his style as vintage Americana and tells his stories in a timeless manner. “One of my favorite artists is Vermeer and I admire the innocence, charm and simplicity of his work. Each piece is a little miracle. I choose to portray the beauty in our everyday life and offer images that all of us can appreciate and enjoy.”
Born and raised in rural Oklahoma, Nick received his formal art training at the Atelier LeSueuer in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Nick refined his skills by copying old master paintings in the collection of the Minneapolis Institute of Arts. After completing several highly finished copies, he continued his training by apprenticing in the studio of the national illustrator Mike Wimmer and became his full time assistant before branching out on his own as a full time professional artist.
As an illustrator and portrait artist, his images have been published on book covers, children's books, figurines, textiles, puzzles, ceramics, calendars, greeting cards and magazines. His paintings have been exhibited throughout the United States and are owned by Hollywood celebrities, the Oklahoma State Senate, corporate headquarters and many private collections. His work has been featured in American Artist Magazine and he is a current member of the National American Portrait Society.
In 2001, he was chosen by First Lady Cathy Keating to paint the state's Official Oklahoma Governor's Christmas Card. The original oil titled “Believe” is now in the collection of the Governor's Mansion. His most recent advertising campaign has been with McDonalds and Dr. Pepper's 35th anniversary poster. Nick's current collectable plate market series of dog breeds has topped well over 100,000 plates sold.
For more information, contact the Oklahoma Arts Council at (405) 521-2931 or scott@arts.ok.gov.
ABOUT THE OKLAHOMA ARTS COUNCIL
The Oklahoma Arts Council is a state agency whose mission is to improve lives through the arts by promoting and sustaining the development of a thriving arts environment, which is essential to quality of life, education and economic vitality for all Oklahomans.
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