Nina Alderete
Burien, WA
"The text, for me, is when the painting turns into art. It is like the lyrics of a song you cannot stop thinking about, or a phrase in a book that rolls around your head for months."
About Me
Nina Alderete is a visual artist based in Burien, Washington. Her collage paintings spotlight veiled emotions shaped by societal expectations. Her art practice focuses on creating stylized facades that, on closer examination, break apart to reveal tension between self and public pressures. Each piece is designed to tell a story and leave questions about what is kept hidden and how these influences define one's existence.
Examples of My Work
Fun Facts
I love cats. This needs no further explanation.
I have a big bin full of creepy antique dolls that I collect/keep as art supplies.
I think spaghetti and cake are the perfect breakfast food.
I read. But nothing serious. Not anymore. Just give me a fantasy world to live in for a while.
Nothing beats watching the storm by the fire under a huge pile of blankets.
More About Me
Tell us about your art studio.
Well, it is supposed to be our furnished basement, a shared space. But I have taken over. It is all MINE. The garage is mine (It has large, sturdy metal shelves to house the thousands of pounds of antique/vintage magazines), the extra bedroom houses my finished collage paintings, and the basement den is where I cut, paint, sew, and assemble my art. I have everything beautifully organized until I don't, which is usually about a day into a new series. I work off a folding table surrounded by three lights.
What, if anything, is playing in the background while you create?
Neko Case, Los Lobos, Joni Mitchell, Chris Pureka, Steve Earle, so many artists. I am drawn to songs with lyrics that get stuck in your head and conjure up strong images and emotions.
What is the funniest or most unexpected reaction someone has had to your work?
I am never sure what will pull someone in. I think the words find the people who need them. Once people settle in and start reading the text in each painting, I hear laughter, and I have seen discomfort and tears. Every once and awhile, someone will share what the text means to them and how it has touched them or relates to their life. These are the most amazing moments.