Nancy Wolfe Kimberly, aka Gator Girl, is lover of all things New Orleans. New Orleans is her muse. Wherever she looks she is struck visually and spiritually by her surroundings. Whether it is a Mardi Gras Indian in his dazzling suit, an alligator sunning herself along the bayou, or a quiet cemetery in the evening, New Orleans speaks to her heart. When she paints she has two goals, to spread healing energy to the city and to spread the New Orleans attitude of love to the rest of the world. Nancy Wolfe Kimberly is a New Orleans artist living and working in the Uptown neighborhood.

Describe your art in three words Vibrant, Whimsical, Sincere.

Describe yourself in one word Hopeful.

What do you love the most about creating art in New Orleans? What particular part of your immediate environment, in your neighborhood specifically influences your work? I think I can only make the art I want in New Orleans. Even when I was living in California, I was painting alligators and angels. The old buildings, the grit, the people, the music, and religious symbols influence my work. Once at St. Stephen’s I saw a dove representing the holy spirit and thought of painting a pelican ascending to heaven.

Describe your creative process. Are there any rituals or rites of passage you exercise before you begin a new piece? I talk to the muses. I put a few layers of paint down while I think about the composition. I light a candle and set my intentions for the painting.

Where do you draw inspiration? Usually, I know what I am going to paint next. Something just pops into my head. Walking around the French Quarter, going to a festival, and meeting new people all jar something in my brain.

Who are your artistic influences or gurus? Shiloh Sophia is one of my wonderful art teachers. She is an authentic, prayerful, risk-taker. I am also drawn to the art work of Frida Kahlo, George Rodrigue, and Van Gogh.

In New Orleans, art and music go hand in hand. What type of music, band or song lyric best describes your work? Fats Domino’s "Walking to New Orleans".

Where can we find you when you are not creating art? You can find me hanging out with my friends and family and doing the things that are necessary so I can get back to making art.

What is your favorite time of day/day of the week/month of the year? Morning, Monday, Summer. I like a fresh start and a hot day.

What is something people don’t know about you? A fun fact. I spent 5 weeks in India and Arabia.

All works listed online are available to be viewed at Where Y’Art Gallery by appointment.

2317 General Pershing Street, New Orleans, LA (by appointment)

Zèle Artist Market - 2841 Magazine Street

Original paintings typically ship in 2-3 days. If I have the giclee or print on site, it will also ship in 2-3 days. I usually have 2 of every print on hand.

If I need to order a giclee or print, it will be 2 weeks until I can ship. Local NOLA pick-up or delivery is possible. Please message me. I have a 30 day return policy. Message me if you have a circumstance requiring a return. You will be responsible for return shipping. I definitely want you to be happy. Have no fear. I am happy to ship anywhere. For international shipping prices, rush orders or commissions, login in and send me a private message through the messaging tool on my profile page.