For Nick and Maya Cantrell, art transcends mere occupation; it embodies their very existence. The married couple, who met over three decades ago, have crafted an extraordinary journey that intertwines their love for art with their daily lives.
Nick's artistic path began in an unexpected way. Before fully committing to his art, he worked as a FEMA contractor, often spending weeks away from home. Janet Searfoss, a Batik artist, ignited a spark of inspiration within him. Nick recalls, “I had always loved to draw, but I could never figure out how to bring color into my drawings. When I saw her work, it inspired me.”
In addition to Searfoss, another artist, Kathy George, further influenced Nick’s artistic direction. Kathy utilized batik art in innovative ways, incorporating it with paper to create stunning textures and visuals. Intrigued and eager to learn, Nick reached out to her for guidance. “I called her one day and asked her how she did it, and she told me it was all in the paper,” Nick shares. With this newfound knowledge, he dove into this medium, quickly finding his footing and establishing a unique artistic voice.
Nick operates his in-home studio, where he not only creates original art pieces but also offers limited-edition prints. One of the hallmarks of his artistic process is the custom framing he provides, using reclaimed wood to craft frames that are as unique as the artworks themselves. He meticulously cuts the glass to fit each frame, ensuring that every piece is presented beautifully. His assistant, Rachel Lane, plays a crucial role in this process, helping to keep operations running smoothly. “She’s been with me for five years, and she’s really the one who keeps things on track,” Nick notes.
The Cantrells’ commitment to their craft has led them to win awards at some of the most prestigious art shows along the East Coast, all the way down to South Florida. Nick has cultivated momentum in the art world, gaining recognition for his unique approach to batik art. Each of his pieces is distinct, characterized by the way the wax interacts with the paper and how colors overlay and blend seamlessly. His work captures the essence of his experiences and the beauty of the world around him, making each piece a reflection of his artistic journey.
While Nick travels for shows and events, Maya plays a vital role in maintaining stability at home for the family. As the resident clay artist at the Coastal Arts Center, she dedicates her time to teaching and sharing her artistic gifts with both locals and tourists. “With Nick being gone for shows and events, we knew that we needed the stability,” she explains. Maya’s artistic journey took off around ten years ago, coinciding with the time when their children were still in school. Now that their kids are older, she has gained some freedom to travel with Nick to more art shows, but her primary focus remains on her local studio. “I do local shows that allow me to be back in the studio on a Monday morning,” she laughs.
Maya's studio is a treasure trove of tools and remnants from various techniques she has explored over the years. Each piece tells a story, reflecting her growth as an artist. She finds joy in creating a variety of clay works, from functional pottery to intricate sculptures, and her enthusiasm is infectious. Through workshops and classes, she encourages others to explore their creativity.
Both Maya and Nick draw inspiration from the beauty of nature and their vibrant coastal community.
The Cantrells' journey is an inspiring testament to the power of art to transform lives. They have created a fulfilling life that resonates with creativity and connection. Their story exemplifies the idea that art is not just a profession; it’s a way of life that can inspire and uplift both the artists and those who experience their creations.
Maya can be found at the Coastal Arts Center, where she actively engages with the community and teaches clay classes and workshops. Nick showcases his work online at www.nickcantrell.com. Enthusiasts can browse his unique pieces and learn more about his artistic journey. Together, Nick and Maya Cantrell remind us that art is a vibrant thread that weaves through the tapestry of life, connecting people and inspiring creativity in all its forms. Their craft serves as a beacon for aspiring artists and art lovers alike, proving that with passion and perseverance, one can truly make art their life.
Local shows have me back in the studio on a Monday morning
I had always loved to draw.