Old Earth Creates by Nanette

Old Earth Creates multimedia canvas artwork depicting a "coqui."
This exhibition has closed
April 12–April 26, 2024
Bronx Library Center
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Picture of Nanette Sanchez Velasquez standing next to a sunflower holding up a wood carved sign that says "Old Earth Creates."
Nanette Sanchez Velasquez

Artist Statement: I am a Harlem-born, self taught, teaching artisan with a passion for creating one-of-a-kind art-to-wear. 

My creations reflect who I AM, an Afrocentric, Nuyorican, Indigenous, Latina who is wildly inspired by Mother Earth and compelled to pay homage to my Taino ancestors through my art.

I am the founder of Arts 4 the Art, a teaching artisan organization that provides mixed-media creative arts workshops to the Elderly community.

My creations have been featured in the New York Public Library, Bronx Library Center, El Museo del Barrio,  Bronx Museum of the Arts, and the NY Botanical Gardens. 

I am the proud recipient of the 2015 Kabuya Award: Designer of the Year by the Taino Awards Committee. 

 

Installation Sneak Peak

Old Earth Creates multimedia canvas artwork depicting a "coqui."
Old Earth Creates multimedia canvas artwork depicting an interpretation of the Taino Sun.
Old Earth Creates multimedia canvas artwork depicting an open blue eye.

    • Interview with Nanette Sanchez Velasquez

    Tell me a little about yourself. What would you like people to know about you as a creative?

    I am a native New Yorker. Born, raised and still residing in Harlem. My creative style is bold and fierce utilizing all the colors on the palette. 

    What does your art process look like?  

    I have to say my art process is a bit wild.  I enjoy using natural materials such as seed beads and wood. Mother Nature provides limitless materials that can be used to create art. 

    What inspires your artwork?

    My preferred method of art is wearable art. Creating large, bold pieces that turn heads is my thing. My inspiration comes from nature, my indigenous roots as well as the diverse cultures that I grew up surrounded by in Harlem. 

    What will you be featuring in the exhibit?

    In my exhibit I will be featuring mixed media pieces inspired by my Taino heritage and my personal collection of Taino inspired ceramics by The Brothers Guillen from the Dominican Republic. 

    What do you hope people will find or learn through your work?

    I hope to provoke in people curiosity to further their interest in the Taino culture and the desire to follow me in my creative adventures. 

    Is there anything else you would like to share about your work, such as upcoming projects?

    Please visit my website to see where I’ll be set up during the upcoming months. Mi casa, es tu casa. Peace and blessings. 

     

    Showcase Tours and Events

    Exhibit Opening- Friday, April 12, 2024 | 5-6pm

    Exhibit Closing- Friday, April 26, 2024 | 5-6pm