February 12, 2014
Meticulously torn bits of hand-painted papers, delicately put together, form the exceptionally vibrant collages created by Artist Elizabeth St. Hilaire Nelson. My eye was caught not just by the glowing jewel tones in much of her work, but by the expression, feeling, and mood captured in the images. They are sure to make you smile.
Elizabeth St. Hilaire Nelson, born and raised in New England, has lived in Central Florida for the past 17 years. She holds a B.F.A. in advertising design from Syracuse University, in Syracuse, New York. St. Hilaire Nelson is a Signature Member of the National Collage Society and the Atlanta Collage Society. Elizabeth has recently been published in the Cloth Paper Scissors Book – Techniques and Inspiration for Creating Mixed-Media Art.
Elizabeth had these responses to our interview questions.
How long have you been teaching and what got you started teaching?
I started teaching six years ago because i was asked to be the very first workshop teacher by a start-up group called Amelia Island Artists Workshops, they were in business three years and I returned to teach with them every year they were. It was an opportunity I couldn’t resist.
What is your favorite part about teaching?
My favorite part about teaching is traveling to new places and getting to meet new people.
What would you tell your prospective students are three best reasons for taking a workshop?
Three best reasons are hands-on instruction, being immersed with other artists who have your goals and interests in common, and spending a weekend focusing on art. This is a treat most of us do not get in our day-to-day lives!
What are you currently working on in your own art?
I am currently working on a 60×30 piece with parts extending beyond the substrate. It’s a new venture for me, taking collage to a more 3-D level. This piece will be part of my private collection but I plan to offer the top-out effect in my new work for galleries.
Where is your art currently being exhibited?
Grand Bohemian Gallery nationally.
Is your work represented in galleries, and if so, what hints would you give to artists looking for gallery representation?
Yes it is, my best advice is to be persistent and do not give up trying. Getting into a gallery is very challenging, you cannot take rejection of your work personally. Keep applying and keep working at it.
Do you sell your work in any online gallery?
If people inquire to me directly about a piece on my website, I will track it down and offer it. I also take commissions and have had many requests to do so from my Facebook fan base.
What is your favorite art quote?
“I found I could say things with color and shapes that I couldn’t say any other way – things I had no words for.” – Georgia O’Keeffe 
Describe your studio.
My studio is 10×12, built on a slab that was once a tool shed. It’s quaint, decorated on the outside to match my house. On the inside it has everything I need to make art, be creative, be inspired.
Name five of your “can’t” do without tools/products.
- Golden Fluid Acrylics
- Liquitex Gloss Gel Medium
- American Easel Wood Painting Panels
- Princeton Catalyst Brushes
- Best Easel
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Your chance to meet Elizabeth St Hilaire Nelson is coming soon! She will be teaching a 3-day workshop for us on May 30 – June 1, 2014. There are still some spots available in this exciting workshop.
Catch the latest from Elizabeth on her blog – Paper Paintings.
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I'm really looking forward to this class and the experience of the Hudson River Valley in spring. We are going to have a great time!
Thanks Elizabeth! We're so looking forward to meeting you and seeing your wonderful art in person. I love your studio!
I have taken two of her workshops. Both were wonderful. Eizabeth is a wonderful artist. You will enjoy the entire time you are with her. She is a special lady.
Judi Vreeland