Artist Spotlight: Hope Nowak
"The fascination with philosophy, mental health, and individuality naturally led me to the arts. I began painting in December of 2019. I was drawn to a new reality where I could express myself in an entirely new language. I dabbled with sketching, writing, and urged myself to buy cheap paints from a podunk arts and crafts store and quite literally “winged” it. I painted an owl, named Gary, after a psychotherapist - who hilariously, was named Stephen. This man, who pushed me at my most vulnerable, told me I was talented and I needed to pursue this area. A light at the end of the tunnel."
What type of art is your favorite to create?
Tonalism and abstract landscapes/seascapes are my favorite form of cathartic expression. There is an outpouring of emotional literacy I can attain when painting in this style. I become possessive of the canvas, uncovering my emotional state. These paintings are me shouting at the viewer. Sometimes it’s me needing to be heard, and sometimes it’s a statement that needs to be felt. It is the epitome of who I am, to want others to feel. Even more descriptive, I want the viewer to think. There is an inherent importance in absolving emotional hardships. The evolution and regeneration of the self - what is more powerful than that?
How has your style changed over time?
I am a new artist, and within this age group, I am on the younger side. I was dissuaded by some to paint. I couldn’t portray things the way I intended to, until I worked with Evan Hildebrandt and Alison Shepard. These two professional artists helped me evolve into my own being as an artist. Now I have the utmost freedom to create what I want without the frustrations of not knowing where to start. I can portray my spark. Without Evan or Alison, without the work I put into this, I would not have discovered my confidence. I wouldn’t have true freedom. I wouldn’t have found a new language through painting.
What is your favorite place you have lived?
My favorite place I’ve ever lived is on Mt. Hope Ave, in the heart of the West Side of Cincinnati. Yes, Price Hill. I grew up between two homes, and my father lived on Mt. Hope. He built a three-tiered deck overlooking the city. One year, he decided to build a pool into the lowest deck. Yes, correct, a pool anchored on a deep sloping hill. My Dad was the most incredible craftsman. When remembering our house on Mt Hope, I am reminded of my Dad’s genuine spark before it fizzled out. He was a brilliant man. Just the thought of his deck, I am overcome with a rich smell of tobacco and my Dad’s Jamaican Spice cologne.
How old were you when you started to sell your art? What other careers have you had?
I was 27 years old when I started selling my art. Previous careers I had involved corporate America, which is great for some, for me - not so great. I could not accept the exploitation involved, and quite honestly, owning my own LLC, I have a lot more rights (ha). Ultimately, back then, I was not being true to myself. I did have a more predictable income, though!
Graeters or Aglamesis? Skyline or Gold Star?
Graeter’s butter pecan or Graeter’s mocha chocolate chip should be etched into the walls of every building in Cincinnati that will withstand time. I prefer Skyline’s three-ways and coneys, but I LOVE Gold Star’s Goritos!
