Ponti Art Gallery is interested in buying and selling works
of art by this artist.
Nina-Chanel Abney Biography
Nina Chanel Abney, born in 1982 in Harvey, Illinois, is a prominent figure in contemporary art, known for her vibrant, large-scale paintings that tackle complex themes of race, gender, politics, and pop culture. Her work is characterized by a unique blend of representation and abstraction, employing dynamic color and form to engage viewers in narratives that reflect the frenetic pace of contemporary life. Through her art, Abney has established herself as a critical observer of modern society, using her canvas to explore and question the world around her.
Abney's journey into the art world began in her childhood, influenced by her mother, an artist, and her early fascination with Archie Comics, the Berenstain Bears, and Disney movies. Despite moving frequently and facing challenges such as being teased for "talking white" in school, Abney found solace and expression in art. She would draw portraits of famous black figures in pop culture to connect with her classmates, laying the groundwork for her future career. Abney's passion for art led her to pursue formal education in the field, earning a dual BFA in studio art and computer science from Augustana College in 2004. Her decision to blend art with technology reflects her interest in exploring new mediums and pushing the boundaries of traditional painting.
After completing her undergraduate studies, Abney worked at Ford Motor Company in Chicago, where an incident involving a coworker's injury prompted her to commit fully to painting. This commitment led her to the Parsons School of Design, where she graduated with an MFA in 2007. It was here that Abney created "Class of 2007," a diptych that would become a turning point in her career. The piece, which depicted her classmates as black inmates and herself as a white corrections officer, captured the attention of the art world and the prominent Rubell family of art collectors. This early recognition of her work highlighted Abney's ability to address complex social issues with humor and insight, setting the stage for her future success.
Abney's first solo museum exhibition, "Royal Flush," opened in 2017 at the Nasher Museum of Art at Duke University. The exhibition, which traveled to Chicago, Los Angeles, and New York, showcased a decade of Abney's work, highlighting her evolution as an artist and her continued engagement with contemporary issues. Her paintings, known for their bold colors, geometric shapes, and fragmented narratives, invite viewers to consider the layers of meaning within each piece. Abney's work is not only visually striking but also intellectually stimulating, challenging audiences to reflect on the complexities of identity, power, and society.
In addition to her museum exhibitions, Abney has been involved in various projects that extend her influence beyond the gallery walls. She has created large-scale murals, collaborated with brands, and explored new technologies such as augmented reality to make her art accessible to a wider audience. Abney's commitment to accessibility and her desire to engage with the public on multiple levels demonstrate her belief in the power of art to inspire change and foster dialogue.
Abney's work is included in the collections of prestigious institutions such as the Whitney Museum of American Art, the Brooklyn Museum, and the Museum of Modern Art, among others. Her contributions to contemporary art have been recognized with numerous awards and accolades, cementing her status as a leading voice in the art world.
As an African American woman navigating the predominantly white male-dominated art industry, Abney has faced challenges but has also used her platform to advocate for diversity and inclusion. Her art serves as a mirror to society, reflecting its beauty and its flaws, and encouraging viewers to question and understand the world around them. Through her innovative approach and unwavering commitment to addressing pressing social issues, Nina Chanel Abney continues to shape the landscape of contemporary art, leaving an indelible mark on the cultural fabric of our time.
Nina-Chanel Abney Quotes and
Sales of Works
Ponti Art Gallery selects and deals with paintings by the
artist. Upon request, we provide free estimates and
evaluations, communicate prices, quotations, and current
market values.
If you are interested in BUYING or SELLING works by the
artist, contact us immediately.
If you wish to sell or receive an evaluation of the
works:
Send us a frontal photo of the painting, one of the back,
and one of the signature. Also, indicate the dimensions of
the work. Inform us about the purchase origin of the work
and any kind of available documentation (purchase
receipts, certificates of authenticity, publications). One
of our operators will respond to you on the same day. We
guarantee maximum confidentiality and extreme
professionalism.
If you wish to purchase works by the painter: Contact us
and let us know your request. We will inform you about the
available works. We also offer the possibility to
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informed at the beginning of each month about the latest
acquisitions of the art gallery.
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