The Member Spotlight series at Newburyport Art is a new initiative, featuring a solo showcase of work in the newly designated Mural Gallery — the hallway and staircase bridging the downstairs Sargent Gallery and upstairs Hartson Gallery.

The current Member Spotlight is on NAA Artist Member Elisa Vanelli, who presents Deep Blue — a stunning collection of sculptural work of the “deep blue” sea.

More of Elisa’s work can be found online at VanelliArt.com.

• Artist Statement

  I am a wildlife artist.

  I strongly believe in the transmission of energy between the artist, which becomes a channel for the universal energy and its creations. My animals are infused with such energy to the point that they end up having their own soul.

  The use of the universal energy and the deep connection I created with Mother Nature combined with the four elements brings life and balance to my artwork.

  The sculpting process itself involves the four elements of creation:

  • the earth (clay)
  • the water (contained in the clay)
  • the wind (that dries my sculpture)
  • the first to end the process

  I look at the way I sculpt as a very complete journey of creation with the final goal of helping nature and wildlife thrive.
  

• About Elisa Vanelli

  “I was born in Bologna, Italy. I have a background of graphic design and a master’s degree in foreign languages and literatures. My love for art started at the age of 13 when I discovered the impressionist movement and its painters. I have been painting for most of my life and discovered sculpture only two years ago. I lived in Provence for the last 13 years where I met a famous Provencal Sculptor that taught me how to create bigger scale fiber glass sculptures and the art of molding.

  I started sculpting with clay only a couple of years ago, self-taught, after my Reiki 2 initiation I knew I had to become a sculptor.

  My family and I moved in June 2021 to Essex in Massachusetts and in this slice of heaven I found my highest inspiration.“

  More of Elisa’s work can be found online at VanelliArt.com.

Come meet Elisa and her creatures for a public reception on Saturday, July 1st from 3-5pm!