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City in a Jar is the start of a new series of surreal paintings of captured memories by artist Nikki Smith.

Here, a hard working man gazes at a colossal glass jar containing a captured slice of city night life. The viewer is left wondering, is this a jar of dreams for the future, for now untouchable and out of reach? A reflection on memories of how the city once was, and how it might be again some day? Or quite literally a giant jar encapsulating part of his city and walling it off from the rest? What is his story? Does he feel like an outsider? Is he recalling a significant moment in his life? A first date with a lost love?

I always listend to music while I create, and this piece was inspired by the song "Under the Bridge" by Red Hot Chili Peppers, with the lyrics:

"Sometimes I feel like I don't have a partner
Sometimes I feel like my only friend
Is the city I live in, the city of angels
Lonely as I am, together we cry
I drive on her streets 'cause sh...

I am an artist, a mother, and an entrepreneur. I'm passionate about music and color and seek to convey the transformative power of music through my paintings. My artwork and tutorials have been regularly featured in Cloth Paper Scissors and Cloth Paper Scissors PAGES magazines. I am following my passions and creating art that I love for the sheer joy of it! I hope it resonates with you as well. Exciting news! My self-portrait, "Music Was My First Love" won the juried 2021 Billboard Contest sponsored by Fine Art America, and is featured on a giant billboard in Houston, Texas. If you see it, let me know. For a glimpse behind-the-scenes and to see more of my artwork, including my newest pieces, works in progress, tutorials and more,...