Have You Ever Been in Love? (2025)

Have You Ever Been in Love? (2025)

These portraits began as interviews, with the first question asking if the subject had ever been in love. Based on their response, Nelson then steered the conversation to find out more, and to understand the subject’s personal view of love.

"a beautiful thing (Kasey)" (2025), oil paint on wood panel, 10x10"

"rediscovered what love is (Matthew)" (2025), oil paint on wood panel, 10x10"

"I don't think so (Morrison)" (2025), oil paint on wood panel, 10x10"

"a choice I will make for the rest of my life (Emily)" (2025), oil paint on wood panel, 10x10"

"wonder and mystery (Dr. Pedersen)" (2025), oil paint on wood panel, 10x10"

"it's not a Disney movie (Caleb)" (2025), oil paint on wood panel, 10x10"

The interviews were filmed in order to capture the minute expression changes during the conversation, which allowed Nelson to revisit the conversation while they painted. Each piece combines emotion and color to attempt to convey the effect love has had on the subject.

Each title is a direct quote from the interviews.