Nonney Oddlokken

Nonney Oddlokken is a native to New Orleans but has lived and studied abroad for many years. Although considered an autodidact, she received her BFA at Strykejernet Fine Arts Academy in Oslo, Norway. Then returned back to the University of New Orleans to further her interest in Women’s Studies. She says “I could never give credit to just one or to two sources. I have spent more of my own time researching, traveling, taking classes and studying paintings from the top Art Museums of Europe and the United States, than I ever did in a classroom. These experiences have taught me more about art than any university did. To credit an institute that I took classes from 20 years ago, tells too little of my education.” Paying it forward, she started an Arts Enrichment program at Harahan Elementary School and taught art at Hahnville High school. In 2015, she was the guest lecturer for the St Charles Parish School Board Arts Program.

Her passion and inspiration stem equally from the arts and the advancement of women which she expresses through her art. “I try to have an open dialogue about women in my art. To question the lives of women.” In the series, “Tales of a Southern Harlot,” the discourse is of women’s sexuality. In “Midwifery,” the questions lie in Obstetrics practices. In her newest series, “Tethered,” is the reflection of social restraints that are put on women. These works are all captured in a mixed media, using such mediums as handmade papers, threadwork, encaustics, vintage photographs and collage work sewn onto canvases.