Nestled in the serene landscapes of the Catskills, New York, artist Lori Nelson crafts mesmerizing paintings that invite viewers into a world where whimsy and nostalgia collide. Her work is an exploration of the surreal, often balancing a delicate tension between childhood memories and the eerie allure of the unknown.
The Forest as a Muse
For Nelson, the surrounding wilderness serves as both inspiration and collaborator. “Crawling the forest, I find myself drawn to its quiet stories—its shadows and whispers,” she shares. These elements are woven into her art, which often features otherworldly figures and lush landscapes that feel both inviting and slightly unsettling.
Painterly Portals
Nelson’s style blends soft, dreamlike brushstrokes with uncanny subject matter. Characters with oversized eyes—filled with wonder and melancholy—gaze out at the viewer, often inhabiting surreal environments where the familiar meets the fantastical.
Her paintings feel like portals to another dimension, one shaped by personal memories, fleeting emotions, and a longing to uncover the narratives hidden in the natural world. “Painting, for me, is like discovering a diary I didn’t know I was writing,” Nelson explains.
Beyond the Canvas
When not immersed in her studio, Nelson is often outdoors, drawing inspiration from her environment. She describes these moments of connection with nature as essential to her process, fueling her creativity and grounding her in the stories she wishes to tell.
Discover more of Lori Nelson’s enchanting work on her Instagram and explore her collection of paintings on her website. For collectors or enthusiasts seeking something truly unique, Nelson’s art offers an evocative journey into the dreamlike and the deeply personal.
