Name: Nevin J. Kelly
Occupation: Owner, Nevin Kelly Gallery
Residence: Columbia Heights, Washington, DC
Why I chose this picture: I chose this piece because it showcases the talents of an outstanding and somewhat under-recognized local artist. This was the first I had seen of Ellyn’s work, and it caused me to invite her to exhibit in my gallery. She made this painting for the 2004 Art-O-Matic. Just a few days before Art-O-Matic opened, Ellyn put a 12-foot long piece of blank paper on the wall, and she created an excellent abstract painting right there on the site. It is an example of an artist flexing her muscles, doing a very large piece under pressure for a particular purpose.
The composition and color balance are wonderful. The oil bar and pastels create great textures. I love the energy in the piece; it has a very uplifting feel to it. As with a lot of abstract paintings, you sort of struggle to make sense of it and try to interpret it. That is what holds your attention.
I also chose the painting because it highlights a City program that I want to encourage. The City bought the painting in 2006 as part of its growing collection of works by local artists. It is on permanent display alongside dozens of other works by local artists that is open to the public at the Wilson Building. That collection was curated by Sondra Arkin, another local artist that we represent. So there’s a lot about the piece that appeals to me.
If you go
On view at the John A. Wilson building indefinitely
1350 Pennsylvania Ave. NW
