Naomi Nevo Ben Ari

University of Hartford

Artwork title: Girl
oil on board | 24 x 24 inches

Tell us about the work that you have submitted.
The light from the window changed her ear color to a luminous orange. That is how it started. I realize there is a narrative that may come to mind because of the subject matter, the composition, the clay art or her expression, but I think an artist should leave that to the viewer’s imagination and interpretation.

How do you describe your work and practice?
I like to touch the surface and explore paint consistency, color and brush motion as I apply the paint in layers in order to create vibration and mood.

What motivated you to apply to the AXA Art Prize?
Last year Hirokazu Fukawa, a professor at my school, and Ying Ye, a fellow student, told me about it and encouraged me to apply, and I also decided to try again this year.

How do you approach a new work?
I am always trying new surfaces, materials and ways of working. Sometimes, like with this painting, I combine methods of working and paint partly from life, partly using photos, and also from sketches and memory.

Instagram | @naominba