Nancy McCurtin

Artist’s Statement: I’m 80 years old and have been totally blind for ten years. I create my work using only my fingers and anything tactile to help.

Thief

"Thief" shows an octopus absconding with a piece of jewelry from this shipwreck. I used foam clay to create the octopus and popsicle sticks to create the treasure chest.
“Thief” shows an octopus absconding with a piece of jewelry from this shipwreck. I used foam clay to create the octopus and popsicle sticks to create the treasure chest.

Back to Top of Page | Back to Art | Back to Volume 20, Issue 1 – Summer 2026

Singing in the Rain

"Singing In the Rain" uses springs to outline the mushroom shape, and the frogs were cut out of paper, so it is a mixed media creation, as are most of my creations.
“Singing In the Rain” uses springs to outline the mushroom shape, and the frogs were cut out of paper, so it is a mixed media creation, as are most of my creations.

Back to Top of Page | Back to Art | Back to Volume 20, Issue 1 – Summer 2026

About the Artist

Nancy began her career as an elementary school music teacher, where she spent many years helping young students discover confidence and creativity through music. Teaching was always rooted in her love for the arts, but she never imagined that art itself would become the center of her own life story. Only two years before losing her sight, Nancy discovered painting and began exploring her creativity in a new way. What started as a personal outlet quickly grew into a passion. When she later became blind, many people might have seen that moment as an ending—but for Nancy, it became the beginning of something completely different. After losing her vision, Nancy refused to give up her artistic voice. Instead, she adapted, learned new ways to create, and continued painting with determination and courage. Her artwork is deeply personal and reflects resilience, strength, and the belief that creativity does not depend on perfect circumstances. Each piece represents her willingness to keep moving forward even when life changed in ways she never expected.In addition to her work as an artist, Nancy also became an author after losing her sight. Writing gave her another way to share her experiences, connect with others, and inspire people who may be facing challenges of their own. Her first book, titled Topsey, A Parable of Hope for People with Disabilities, can be found on ebook, audiobooks and printed books. Through her books and her art, she hopes to encourage others to believe that setbacks do not define a person—perseverance does. Today, Nancy continues to create with the support of her friends and family, and her work serves as a reminder that creativity, passion, and purpose can grow even in the most difficult moments. Her story is not just about loss, but about resilience, adaptation, and the power of continuing to create no matter what obstacles appear.