Nadia Meadows
Professional artist and art curator, Charlotte, North Carolina
Education: Associate of Arts, Wake Technical Community College (2016)
Bachelor’s in Fine Arts: Sculpture, University of Charlotte At North Carolina (2020)
Hometown: Durham, North Carolina
Nadia Meadows attended Durham School of the Arts, an art-focused middle and high school. Before graduating, she explored various artistic paths and discovered a passion for creating 3D art. After obtaining her associate’s degree in arts from Wake Tech Community College, she realized she had a desire to work on larger 3D sculptures. Seeking to enhance her skills for creating larger-scale artwork, Nadia pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts at UNC Charlotte, winning the sculpture area award and the “Junior of the Year” accolade.
Nadia says that UNC Charlotte provided her with access to a wide range of opportunities, including studying abroad and attending sculpture, ceramic, and photography conferences. These experiences allowed her to delve into the world of full-time artists, gaining insights into their sources of inspiration and methods of generating income. “The dedicated professors in the art department, such as Marek Ranis, Jonathan Pellitteri, Shelley Shoan Ellis, Tomas Schmidt, Lydia Thompson, and others, imparted valuable skills and knowledge. Their unwavering support and encouragement for artistic ideas and projects, regardless of scale, have been instrumental in shaping me into the artist I am today.”
One particularly memorable experience from her time at UNC Charlotte was attending a photography conference with her professor, Aspen Hochhalter. Together, they explored the city, visited various galleries, and engaged in conversations with artists. “This conference proved to be truly enlightening for me, as it exposed me to a wealth of inspiration simply by immersing myself in a new city and engaging with fellow artists. The interactions and discussions during the conference provided me with valuable tools to explore and experiment with new ideas whenever I encounter creative blocks in my current artistic practice,” Nadia says.
Nadia is currently a professional artist specializing in 3D sculptures. She is art curator for events such as Art Field Day, a free, one-day public art event in Charlotte that celebrates outdoor sculptures and encourages community engagement. “I am currently a designer at Floor and Décor and work as a Raw Materials Specialist for Coca-Cola. I also sell my gallery artwork through my website at Nadiameadows.com.”
One of the most fulfilling projects Nadia says she has undertaken since graduating is the creation of the egg sculpture “Hair Cuticle” for the Charlotte SHOUT! Festival.
“This unique piece is crafted from natural braiding hair and twists, delicately mounted on felt,” she describes. “The crown symbolizes the protection of hair fragility, while the intricate texture represents the concept of hair growth. The vertical line patterns within the artwork depict the myriad paths one can take towards personal growth, serving as an homage to the rapid development of Charlotte. The phrase ‘GOOD HAIR’ featured in the piece prompts viewers to reflect on their own perceptions of what constitutes ‘good hair,’ sparking meaningful conversations about identity and self-expression. Through this artwork, I aim to highlight the profound impact that one’s relationship with their hair can have on self-confidence and overall well-being. This project holds a special place in my heart as it allowed me to witness individuals from diverse backgrounds engaging with my creation. The experience of showcasing a public art piece in Uptown Charlotte, one that resonates with viewers and leaves a lasting impression, has inspired me to pursue further opportunities in creating enduring public artworks in the future.”
Her advice for current students: “The abundance of opportunities to delve into studying abroad and engage in conversations with artists is invaluable. Witnessing firsthand how other artists navigate their creative journeys is a priceless experience.” She also emphasizes that students should learn to accurately price their artwork and learn to “articulate their artistic process through writing,” Which she says “can be just as challenging, if not more so, than the actual creation of the artwork itself.”