Posted on October 09, 2009
A Passion for Painting
January 21 - March 15, 2010
Opening Reception Saturday, January 23, 6 - 9p
Nomi Wagner is a digital portrait artist. The process begins with a blank canvas on a computer screen. She uses a photograph for inspiration, but does not manipulate the original image. Instead, she paints stroke by stroke in a conventional watercolor style. Technology has given her the freedom to experiment and innovate. It has enabled her to paint not just the likeness, but to catch the true essence of her subjects as well.
For 20 years, Wagner worked as a renowned portrait photographer for celebrities, corporations, and thousands of families in West Los Angeles. In 1992, she was a pioneer in the digital art field, winning awards and appearing on network TV. She continues her art in Mandalay Beach, and is delighted to show in Ventura, CA.
Karen Santo’s paintings invite you to step inside. Lie on your back and view the crimson sunset, picnic amongst the autumn leaves by the river, or wind your way through the desert wild brush. Santo’s careful use of tone and color create a three dimensionality to her canvases.
Santo studied at the Academy of Art in San Francisco, and her work has been juried into nationally recognized art shows.

