The Art of CHARLENE LANZEL: Fine Art, Murals, Decorative Arts, Portraits, Design, Illustration

As a fine artist, Charlene Lanzel is best known for her continuing series of Pin-Up Girls which she began painting in 1996. The sultry, self-taught artist strives to immortalize her bevy of beautiful friends and shows her artwork at various New York City lounges and galleries. Charlene was an avid night crawler and face on the New York nightlife scene, and had been moonlighting as a cigarette girl and go-go dancer in the city's hottest night spots. This introduced her to some of the most beautiful and sexy women in town. She felt they should all be immortalized and began featuring her friends as the models in her paintings. She found these women to be confident, intelligent individuals; empowered by their femininity and sensuality.

Charlene Lanzel has been influenced by a variety of imagery spanning many decades. In her work you'll catch glimpses of sophisticated style from the 1920's and 30's, the "Pin-Up" theme of the 40's and 50's and a "Pop" sensibility from the 60's. There's a natural, open sexuality from the 70's and campy glamour of the 1980's. You'll also find references to the 90's retro-lounge scene and a timeless sense of humor. Painted in acrylics, the nearly life-size figures virtually leap from the canvases. The full impact can only truly be appreciated in person.

Charlene Lanzel and her work have appeared in many publications, including: New York Magazine, About.com, Screw Magazine and Time Out NY Magazine. Time Out has called her, "...extremely pin-up-able..." and "...lovely and talented...". In 1999, Charlene Lanzel graced the cover of Time Out's "Vice" issue as a devilish Pin-Up Girl painted by fellow Pin-Up artist Jason Freeny, which won "Best Cover" in 2005. Charlene has appeared on several television programs, including: "Malignant Muse" where she appeared as Artist of the Week, and on the prime-time German television program "Peep" where she was interviewed about her artwork.

Charlene Lanzel is a multi-faceted diamond who seems to shine at every point. Leaving no stone unturned, she keeps us wondering where she'll turn up next.