YD Nixon

Artist Bio:

At six years old, I discovered my interest in drawing initially using colored pencils, and notebook paper. As my artistic capabilities expanded, I continued to draw and utilize this innate ability. I soon entered the “Planter's Peanut Drawing Contest” and took first place. This first place award enabled me to attend an art school in Minneapolis, however, I was unable to attend because my parents struggled to take care of a family of seven. In 1963, after living in Cleveland, Ohio for approximately ten years, my family relocated to Los Angeles, Ca. Between 1968 and 1971, I attended Bishop Conaty Memorial High School. During this time, I continued working with illustrations by making 2' tall greeting cards with envelopes for my classmates. This short business began to escalate and I was able to help pay for my high school tuition.

Ten years later, I was married and my name changed to Yvette D. Nixon. During 1976, I became fascinated with a specimen of Ernie Barnes' work on the Marvin Gaye album cover “I Want You”. In May 1981, I sketched Mr. Barnes' work with pencil to serve as motivation.

During the early 1990's, I attempted to develop a comic strip for syndication. Since the comic strip field is very competitive, I had the chance to meet th world renown cartoonist who created “Wee Pals”, Morrie Turner, who has been syndicated since 1963. As my mentor, Mr. Turner viewed my work on a host of occasions and strongly urged me to continue working hard on my talent. He also suggested working with greeting cards . Making greeting cards is a hobby that I perform for special occasions and friends.

In September 1994, my cartoons were featured in the “Young Cartoonist Exhibit” on the Water front in Jack London Square. I received recognition in the Jack London Square Currents Newsletter. One of my paintings entitled “AFTER HOURS” was chosen to grace the fliers and programs for the 3rd Annual Production of Dance With Reason which was held at the Alice Arts Center in Oakland, Ca. This company presented “OAKTOWN BLUE” which was written ever so beautifully by Avotcja. It was a historical musical of poetic dance drama. The narration was conducted remarkably by Scorpio Blues, aka Brandy Walker. I was honored to be cast as the gallery featured artist for this event. Thus my initial exposure emerged.

Luckily, on August 18, 2002, I was one of the fortunate ones to have the honor of meeting one of my idols in the same field of interest that has been innate with me. I was extremely elated with the opportunity of actually shaking the hand of the infamous neo-mannerist, Mr. Ernie Barnes at Samuel's Gallery in Oakland, Ca. I am also one of the fortunate people who was able to purchase an autographed copy of Ernie Barnes' book entitled “Pads to Palettes”, which I value due to the data enclosed and “the man himself”.

One day, I aspire to attain the heights that Ernie Barnes has achieved.

Samples:

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