Sarah Spillers
Artist, educator, and art advocate.
Artist Statement
My work is driven by my desire to encapsulate the energy of a single moment. I aim to capture its essence and youth, and transform it through the interplay of color and texture. Through my vibrant palettes, rich textures, and tactile approach to painting, I explore the depths of fleeting instants, crafting narratives that emanate a radiance that transcends boundaries.
Research, experimentation, and reflection are integral components of my practice. I find a deeper connection to the medium by using my hands or painting directly from the tube, embracing the tactile nature of the paint. This approach allows me to engage with the materials on a more visceral level, enabling me to translate the emotions and energy of a moment more effectively. In my ongoing exploration, I have been incorporating textiles, such as fabric and stitching, and rhinestones into my work to introduce new layers of texture and depth. Showing my work is a vital part of my practice. I enjoy creating large-scale pieces that challenge and confront the viewer, inviting them into the moment.
My work strives to encapsulate not just the visual aspects of a moment, but also its energy, youth, and essence. I am obsessed with color and texture, as it is a constant theme in my work. My intention is to accentuate the beauty of these fleeting moments, imbuing them with a radiance that potentially surpasses their original brilliance.
Biography
Sarah Spillers is a contemporary painter, art educator, and curator from Nashville. Her work in the years 2020-2022 depicted Nashville's experience during the COVID-19 Global Pandemic. The new environment created by the pandemic became the focus of her paintings, which showcased vibrant colors and textures to contrast the somber and serious times. Spillers’ recent artwork shines a spotlight on local businesses and neon signs, capturing the lively and energetic atmosphere of the city. Her ultimate goal is to foster unity within the Nashville community through her art. Recognized for her talent, Spillers was honored as Nashville's "Best Visual Artist" in both 2022 and 2023 by the Nashville Scene. Currently, she divides her time between teaching middle school art, conducting mixed media painting classes at Austin Peay State University, and leading art sessions at Customs House Museum and Cultural Center as part of their artist residency program.
Driven by a passion for encapsulating the energy of a specific moment, Spillers’ work revolves around the interplay of color and texture. Her vibrant palettes, rich textures, and tactile approach to painting allow her to delve into the depths of fleeting instants and create narratives that radiate brilliance beyond boundaries. She embraces research, experimentation, and reflection as integral aspects of her artistic practice. By using her hands or painting directly from the tube, Spillers establishes a deeper connection with the medium, enabling her to effectively translate the emotions and energy of a moment. To add new dimensions to her work, she incorporates textiles like fabric, stitching, and rhinestones, introducing layers of texture and depth. Displaying her artwork plays a crucial role in her creative process. Spillers thrives on creating large-scale pieces that challenge and engage viewers, inviting them to become part of the moment she portrays. Her art strives not only to capture the visual aspects of a moment but also its energy, youth, and essence, ultimately radiating a brilliance that surpasses its original form.