Artist Profile Vanessa Falgoust

Falgoust’s deeply introspective, color-forward oils cradle memory in the wake of life.

Artist Statement

So many storms.

Artist Biography

My experience as a hospice chaplain was a profound honor and changed my purpose for painting. I paint memories and memories of memories hoping to realize the subjective world wherein lies the sum of a person’s life. Thus, my paintings are “subjective” narratives, that is, the imprint of an experience that shapes a person. Since there is no “objective” reference, I make the images up in paint. So painting is magical and allows me to realize memories and subjective images. Gestures and expressions are revelatory and essential to my work. Recently color has become another crucial tool.

I did not pursue art seriously until after I had earned a B.A. in religion from Texas Christian University and an M.Div. from Yale University. My art education includes the Art Students League of N.Y.C. and the San Francisco Art Institute, where I earned my M.F.A. Other influences shaping my art are Søren Kierkegaard, Rembrandt van Rijn, and Vincent Van Gogh (also studied for the ministry). I have made and sold artwork while serving as a pastor and healthcare chaplain. Many memories originate from my native state, Louisiana. My father was born into a French speaking family, so I entitle certain works in French.