“Soulful Eye-Candy” Collage Art To Be Displayed At Library

By: Jack Rubin

Boca Raton’s Downtown Library will exhibit collage artist Nicole Washburn’s work from October 6 to November 6. Washburn’s “Fragments into Form” features multiple different paper collages that blend colors and images to “portray elements from nature and the supernatural.”

The “Fragments into Form” exhibit includes collages from 2005-2016. Having lived in the mountain forests of Central Argentina for 22 years, Washburn draws her inspiration for her work from many different places.

Washburn cites the combination of her experiences in the wilderness and her degree in cultural anthropology for her unique perspective on issues affecting humanity today. This uncommon fusion of knowledge has certainly influenced her art as well.

“Each new piece is like an invitation into an alternative world that is deeply connected to nature, spirit, and magic,” Washburn stated.

The artist has been, “strongly influenced by her exploration of shamanic spirituality.” Using this impactful outlook in a western context helps Washburn to portray the supernatural in her art. Mythological images are also present in, what Washburn calls, her “soulful eye-candy.”

Nicole Washburn’s beginning in art was unexpected. Diagnosed with breast cancer in 2004, the artist began to experiment with different art forms. I wanted to communicate the feelings I had so that I could heal both physically and mentally,” Washburn said of her motives.

She decided that collage was the perfect fit. Washburn remarked, “I could juxtapose, blend, and overlap contrasting colors, forms, and images.” Washburn’s collages are designed to be spiritual and alternative, and to illicit previously unprovoked thoughts in viewers.

Neil Schulhoff works with program services at the library. He noted the audacity of the artwork, “Her collages jump out at you with all the terror and beauty of life itself.”

The exhibit is free and open to the public during normal library hours. It will run for one month at the Downtown Library, an Art in Public Places venue.

Art in Public Places is a program managed by the Facilities Development and Operations Department of Palm Beach County. Their purpose is to, “stimulate cultural interaction, education, and economic development by selecting, siting, installing and maintaining public art.” “Fragments into Form” will become the latest installment.