An exhibition of drawings and paintings by Norman artist Nick Wu will open with a reception for the artist at 2 p.m. Feb. 7 at the historic Santa Fe Depot, 200 S. Jones Ave.
 
Presented by The Performing Arts Studio, “Art of Portraiture” will run through March 28.  There is no admission charge.

Wu specializes in portraiture characterized by spontaneity of expression and realism and a skillful control of light, tone and texture.  Although he received some formal training in China, he is largely self-taught.  “My parents encouraged me to develop my art at an early age by taking me to various art studios, where I became familiar with the works of llya Repin, Nicholai Fechin and Richard Schmid,” he explained.  “Those artists have had a lasting impact on my use of light and color.”

Wu works with great speed, completing oil portraits of live models within three hours and pencil drawings within 30 minutes.  “Drawing is the most important foundation technique for any visual art, including painting,” he said.  Wu demonstrated his drawing technique at the Depot during the December 2009 and January 2010 Second Friday Circuit of Arts.

A financial adviser as well as artist, Wu has served as an economic reform strategic adviser to the Chinese government and consultant to U.S. businesses regarding Chinese markets. In 2002, he was appointed to the governor's Advisory Council on Asian Affairs. He currently is a wealth management adviser with Merrill Lynch in Oklahoma City. 
 
Wu holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in international economics from Zhongshan University in China and an MBA degree in finance from Oklahoma City University.  He holds an adjunct faculty appointment in finance and economics at OCU’s Meinders School of Business and serves on the business school’s executive advisory board.

Wu also is a member of the faculty of Norman Firehouse Art Center and the American Portrait Institute and serves on The Performing Arts Studio’s Board of Trustees.

The Performing Arts Studio is housed at the Santa Fe Depot.  For more information on the organization’s programs call (405) 307-9320.

PAS gallery exhibitions are made possible in part by grants from the Norman Arts Council, Oklahoma Arts Council and National Endowment for the Arts.