"Living in NYC is very inspiring with so much to see - street art, architecture, museums, people, and fashion. I love to get out and walk around when I need a break from the studio. You never know what you might see that could spark a new idea."
It's no surprise that New York provides endless amounts to inspiration to so many, and artist Alli Wotring is no different. On a recent visit to Soho, we stopped by the uber-talented beauty's studio to check out her recent work and chat life stuff.
I took my first art class when I was a senior in high school and I was surprised by how much I loved it and that it sort of came naturally to me. I had an amazing teacher and she really encouraged me to pursue art in college. During winter break she photographed my work, and when I returned to school in January she surprised me by handing me a roll of film. She said, "you should apply to art school." I submitted the images of my work to VCU School of the Arts and I got in! The rest is history.
My current favorite is a large scale abstract oil painting in shades of greens and blues. The colors blend into one another and give a very calming watery effect. I just sold the piece to a client in LA, so I only have a short time to enjoy it before it goes to a new home. However, I'm in the process of painting a similar piece for another client who also loved this one and asked if I could recreate the overall look. While the color and technique can remain the same, the outcome will always be unique. I think that's what makes each piece very special.
I'm somewhat of a minimalist, and the nature of my work requires me to be very casual. Most of the time I'm in paint splattered jeans and a T-shirt. I usually let my accessories do the talking. I love a cool sneaker, bag, or jacket to pull my look together.
I'm currently crushing on my Botkier Harvey sneakers in black leather with exposed zippers. The metal detail gives them an edge so they work great day or night. I'm also obsessed with the Gemma glitter bootie! That's going to be my go-to boot this fall! It has the perfect heel height and will look great at any art show or gallery opening I need to attend.
My work is very modern/minimalist. My pieces are essentially "color fields" created with gradients of one or two colors blended together, evoking an overall sense of space, depth, and reflection. I primarily work large scale using a technique I call "knife meets brush" (knife work that is partially blended out with brushstrokes). The result is an interesting contrast of texture and blended colors without "form" in the traditional sense.
Each person may see or feel something different when viewing my paintings. I've heard people refer to them as many things: calming, moody, powerful...as well as, water, sky, and even denim! Regardless of the interpretation, the most important thing is that you feel something when you view my work. That's what I strive for. That's the point of art in my opinion.
In the market for some cool artwork? We suggest checking out Alli's work in-person.
If you're in the city, stop by Greek eatery Thalassa (179 Franklin Street, NYC) to grab a bite and admire her work that hangs on the restaurant walls. Win-win situation, if you ask us.
For studio appointments and commissioned work contact: www.alliwotring.com/contact
Visit online here: www.alliwotring.com
Peep her killer IG feed here: @alliwotring
