Collective Morning
November 11-18, 2022
Closing Reception
When: Thursday, November 17, 2022, 4:30–6:00 PM
Where: Gallery 130, Meek Hall
Introduce yourself and tell us where you are from.
My name is Abigale Mallery and I am a painter. I was born in Memphis, TN but I have moved a bit around Tennessee and I lived in Texas for a while.
What attracted you to the Department of Art & Art History?
I always had a natural love for art but once I was in the department and I started creating I knew this was my place and I changed my major to fine art.
What type of artwork do you create?
I am a painter, I especially enjoy working with oil paint to layer thick and make interesting textures and I like to use figures as my focal points.
Could you explain your process?
I have an initial idea and I sketch and evolve that idea along with a color palette. I keep that first sketch and color palette (which I use paint swatch cards for) by my panel or canvas as I paint. Once I have a beginning painting I adjust the details as I see fit. I also find it to be really important to have another person weigh in because they may notice something I don’t. Most importantly I try not to become too attached to that initial piece because I always want what I paint to see its full potential, I try to never declare anything completely done.
Which artists do you look to for inspiration?
As far as the “old masters” I love Degas, Hopper, and Van Gogh. As far as contemporary painters I often look at Margaret Bowland, Odd Nerdrum, and Lily-Rose Burgess.
Which professors inspired you the most?
Philip Jackson, Kariann Fuqua, and Brooke Alexander have been my pillars. They have helped me in a million ways and I can honestly say that it is because of them that I can paint and create the way I do.
What has been your favorite class during your years here?
Honestly, all of the sculpture classes were from beginning to advanced. The processes are so fun and the sculpture area has such a good vibe.
Could you describe a favorite memory here in the department?
When I was painting with coffee in my figure drawing class. It was a crisp Autumn afternoon and the smell of coffee was perfect.
Do you have any advice for incoming art students?
Take all the advice you are given and don’t be afraid of changing your ideas around.
What type of music do you listen to while you create art?
I don’t actually listen to music while I work, instead, I listen to TV series because I like to hear people talking. I have watched mostly Gilmore Girls and Supernatural.
What are you binge-watching while being a couch potato?
Tik-Toks
Do you have any hobbies outside of the art department?
I really enjoy baking and cooking.
What is your favorite thing about Oxford or the University?
I love that there is always something interesting and fun going on at the University.
What is your favorite restaurant in Oxford?
Ajax Diner.
Can we find you on social media?
Yes, on Instagram @abigalemalleryart.
Do you have any plans after graduation?
Yes, rest and relax, road trip around the country with my husband, and keep painting. After that, I will be looking for a graduate school.