sally neilson

My concentration is primarily painting and mixed media sculpting,

with a complete exploration into vivid color expression and a whimsical approach to the completed figures. This gives a lucid translation between fine art and illustrative properties, which lend itself to the fluid medium that storytelling becomes for the consciousness. By it’s performative nature, just listening to a tale or reading one, mirrors a viscosity within the mind to remember it’s own innate capacity; an effortless ability to imagine and create. I encourage boundless imagination; which can be diminished in every day repetitive and habitual ways of non self-expressiveness.

I am fascinated by both inward, meaningful symbolism and playful antidotes. Both of which can empower and imbue a person with a sense of well being, lightheartedness, strength, or a way in which to focus their intentions. Symbols and tales are an intricate part of our lives, sometimes long forgotten from conscious memory, but still potent.

I am lured to invoke a narrative processes through an expansive, improvised story or distinct and unique themes. I seek to re-direct art experiences through this storytelling intention, exposing playfulness in imagination as an essential component to life.

For the past 13 years Sally has immersed herself in the practice of storytelling through a visual means. She has developed a fascinating body of work that combines many aspects of fine art and illustrative qualities. She considers herself a contemporary narrative artist and allows her style to morph into more creative expressions over time.

Sally was born in Salt Lake City, UT. And received her B.A. in theatre from the University of Utah. This background has translated to becoming a master storyteller. She has always engaged with audiences as an active performer- previously as a cliff diver, stuntwoman, and actress; now as a static trapezist, acrobat, and fire spinner. However, her artistic passion always comes back to acrylics.

Sally Neilson has participated in 17 solo shows and 22 group shows. She’s been a guest artist for several groups ranging from elementary school to adults, won the public art honorarium twice for the Piano Arts for All project, participated in The Seagull Festival public art project, and was the featured artist in 2 different magazines. Sally is currently creating new bodies of fine art and illustrating her 1st children’s book: “Jungle Sleep”.