Local Artist, Musician or Craftsperson 
Nadi's Studio and Gallery
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Photo © Nadi Spencer
Name of Person: Nadi Spencer
A red door, trimmed with giant colored pencils, invites you into the creative world of artist Nadi Spencer. Well known for her colorist paintings and murals, Spencer is excited to share her passion with visitors to Three Rivers, located in the southern Sierra Nevada. Always happy to take a break, she offers plump chairs and coffee by the wood stove. Canvases and framed originals fill the room, along with prints, cards and gift items adorning her art. Her Great Dane takes up most of the floor.
Spencer has been a professional artist for 40 years, painting in watercolor and acrylics, loving both. "It's rejuvenating," she says, "like changing the music from opera to rock." When asked what inspires her, she says she has a strong emotional attachment to the foothills and mountains of the Sierra surrounding her gallery, and looks forward to spending a lifetime painting the area. "I live in the most beautiful place in the world. You just have to stop, stand still, and open your eyes. It's all there – color, line, light. I'll never run out of subject material."
In addition to landscapes, Nadi paints pet portraits and murals and has also created a line of vegan recipe greeting cards, called Nadi's Table. Her newest cards depict food served "en plein air" on the Kaweah River.
Visitors to Three Rivers, California can see paintings in progress and are encouraged to watch the progression on her blog Nadi Spencer Art, where she leads you from concept to fruition, updating the process each day. "The painting could fail. People find it more interesting if you are vulnerable – the risk of falling on your face makes it real."
Spencer likes the challenge of trying something that might be beyond her capabilities. She works in her studio 7 days a week – work and pleasure are synonymous – unless working on a mural. Whatever her current project is, fun is a critical factor. "Painting is magic and I want magic in my life every day. There isn't anything more exciting. I woke up this morning and thought – I'm living my dream life."
To get to Nadi's Studio, take Hwy 198 (Sierra Drive) towards the mountains, to 41838 Sierra Drive.
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Allison Millner wrote on March 28, 2011: I've been enjoying her artwork since I was a child! Three Rivers wouldn't be the same without Nadi and her spectacular art!
Pam Lockhart wrote on March 19, 2011: Not only is Nadi a prolific and sought after artist; she finds time to support our local school fund raisers like The Hidden Gardens of Three Rivers Tour. All of the traffic-stopping graphics are courtesy of Nadi Spencer. Thanks Nadi, you are amazing!
Deane, Herb and Wyn wrote on March 06, 2011: Nadi’s Studio is a charming destination for our family. It's always a joy to visit her studio to see the new color she is mixing, and to have a refreshing conversation with her. We appreciate her artistic originality, vibrancy and boldness. Nadi's cards are a favorite for our correspondence and holiday greetings. We prize the murals she has painted for our little home and barn. We definitely recommend a visit to Nadi's Studio. You'll be enchanted!
Shirley Keller wrote on February 26, 2011: Not only is Nadi's studio a spot not to be missed when you pass through Three Rivers on the way to and from Sequoia National Park, but she is the Founder of 1st Saturday in Three Rivers. I have worked with her almost from the beginning, to bring artists, merchants, and residents of Three Rivers together once a month to share creativity, fun, and food. She is a never ending fountain of ideas to promote art. One look around her studio shows a person whose creativity has no bounds.
Beth Hart wrote on February 24, 2011: As a fellow artist in Three Rivers I have to say I just ADORE NADI AND HER WORK!! Every artistic person will find some joy in her studio, whether a postcard or a painting. I have found delight in her recipes and we make a redbud salad every Easter thanks to her innovation.
Laurie Boggs wrote on February 23, 2011: Nadi’s studio is to Three Rivers what the North Star is to the heavens...Bright! Sparkling! One of a kind! Impossible to miss! And stunningly, breathtakingly BEAUTIFUL! I love the greeting cards with recipes to have for myself and to send to those people in my life whom I love! And if you ever have a chance to taste the vegan molasses cookies...well...DO IT! They are to die for!
Fred Feldt wrote on February 23, 2011: I have known Nadi all of her life. She is a super person and an outstanding artist. It would be well worth the time to stop by her gallery if you are ever in the area!
Ellen Milinich wrote on February 23, 2011: Nadi’s colorful studio is always a stop on my way to the Seqouias. I wouldn’t miss it!
Carole Firstman wrote on February 22, 2011: Nadi’s work is awesome. Her gallery is always a treat.
Landon Spencer wrote on February 22, 2011: Love Nadi’s studio...original and inspiring
Sage Lee wrote on February 22, 2011: Nadi is the most talented person I know. Her creative fields are many. Cooking, and then painting her foodstuffs, and then creating greeting cards with the food and ingredients. She never is short of new ideas, which keeps her art ever expansive.
Armin and Suzanne Pfadisch wrote on February 22, 2011: It's a delight to visit Nadi's studio...recently brought our daughter and her family to the studio and they were captivated by the color and variety she expresses....thanks for all you do to beautify Three Rivers Nadi.
Jana Botkin wrote on February 19, 2011: I am in awe of Nadi's work - just the color alone at her studio is enough to stop traffic! It is a blessing to have such a gifted artist in Three Rivers.
Jane Shepard wrote on February 14, 2011: This is my favorite gallery anywhere. Whenever we take visitors to Sequoia National Park, we always stop here - the best part of the trip! Nadi's love of life, color, and art and especially her smile are infectious.
Avrum wrote on February 14, 2011: She's a single mother putting her daughter through college, yet she's got time for all who stop at her studio. What a talented, delightful and loving person!
Barbara Sandberg wrote on February 13, 2011: Seeing her beautiful works, sharing a friendly conversation and looking at fantastic things to give as gifts or to embellish your own space is always a pleasure.
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