Paul Nelson has been working as an independent artist in glass and other media for over 20 years. Paul received his B.A. In Studio Art and World Religion in 1992 from Centre College in Danville, Kentucky. Having finished his M.F.A. in Sculpture at the University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana in 1997, Paul moved to Louisville, Kentucky to continue his professional career.
Much of Paul's current work focuses on portraiture, narrative, and a sort of re-contextualization of the sculpted subject, via their cultural and historical contributions to society. Often these characterizations juxtapose brooding dark comedy, epic fantasy, and a quest for depth in meaning. The use of thick cast glass in Paul's sculpture allows the element of light to enhance this purpose.
Paul Nelson's work has been viewed nationwide in gallery, museum, and event-based exhibitions.