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Goals:
Y.D. Nixon is currently working hard
to become known as one of the elite African-American artist
of the century. Upon achieving that elite status, she will
open an art school in West Oakland to help youth expand on
their artistic talents. I aspire to meet the infamous neo-mannerist,
Ernie Barnes.
Life Summary:
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 the 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 my same field of interest, that has been an inspiration
to 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.
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