The Scene writers get to make up their own Best of Nashville award categories, and back in 2018 I gave local painter Alex Blau a “Best Artistic Breakthrough” notice for her Night Swimming display at Zeitgeist. It’s my way of spotlighting an established artist who is still taking chances, expanding their creative vocabulary, and generally leveling up their gallery game. Karen Seapker has become a regionally celebrated painter with her colorful, abstracted depictions of motherhood and contemporary life. Seapker’s signature style might have become overly familiar before she shook up her practice with Green’s Your Color, pairing altar-like platforms with large, low-hanging paintings. These pieces read more like sculpture installations than 2D displays, bringing a welcome gravitas and solemnity to the painter’s colorful florals and playful figurations.
Best Artistic Breakthrough
