Exhibit: Nancy Guzman

Artist's statement:

Nancy M. Guzman, a Retrowave Surreal Artist hailing from Vancouver, WA, draws deep inspiration from her upbringing in Bingen, WA, where she shared a home with six others. Surrounded by the serene landscapes of the Pacific Northwest and the breathtaking Columbia River Scenic Area, Nancy's artistic journey began at the tender age of 10.

Her childhood was imbued with influences from her Catholic upbringing, steeped in the rituals of rosaries and Mass. As a teenager, her artistic palette expanded with the infusion of Death Metal and Alternative Rock, epitomized by bands like The Strokes and Drop Dead Gorgeous. These diverse influences converged to shape the unique artistic DNA of the girl from Bingen, WA.

Nancy pursued her passion further, earning her BFA from Pacific Northwest College of Art. Although her initial dream of becoming an animator was cut short by a severe mental health crisis, she found solace and support from loved ones, enabling her gradual resurgence.

Embracing her sister Diana's mantra that we must all "Live the Dream," Nancy continues to navigate her artistic journey with resilience and determination. Her work reflects a fusion of surrealism and Retrowave aesthetics, capturing both the tranquility of her childhood landscapes and the edginess of her teenage musical influences.

The exhibit is available for viewing August 1–31, during library open hours.