BC Nowlin was raised in the wilds of New Mexico by religious parents who instilled decorum and discipline. The family’s land bordered the Sandia Pueblo Reservation, immersing him in the vibrant Hispanic culture and Native Puebloan mysticism. Growing up as a cross-cultural “native,” BC was shaped by the rich cultural and natural influences of his surroundings, from the stark, ever-changing vistas to the deeply spiritual atmosphere. These impressions left an indelible mark on his creative spirit, setting the stage for a lifelong artistic journey. At age 12, BC embarked on his first artistic endeavor, purchasing oil paints and canvas to capture the dynamic geometry and vivid colors of the New Mexican landscape. His early experiments reflected his environment’s natural architecture and rich palette, themes that would later define his signature style. Despite his parents’ indifference and occasional discouragement, BC’s passion flourished. However, his independent streak clashed with rigid schoolmasters, culminating in his expulsion from high school after defying a strict art instructor. This formative experience left BC without formal training, yet it reinforced his determination to chart his own creative path. After a brief stint at a theological seminary and service in the Marine Corps during the Vietnam era, BC pursued an itinerant lifestyle, filled with artistic experimentation and self-discovery. Hitchhiking across Middle America, he found inspiration in its desolate landscapes, which filled his sketchbooks and informed his dynamic depictions of Native Americans. BC’s work captures the animated spirit and mystique of his subjects, breaking free from static representations. Now settled and happily married, his chaotic journey of travel, painting, and exhibition has culminated in the acclaimed Habitat series, showcased at Scottsdale’s Marshall Gallery.
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