Emely McConkey www .Emely-McConkey.com
Artist’s Statement
For me, it’s all about the excitement generated by the effects of light on the landscape and architecture; my passion is the beauty of the outdoors.
My work interprets my personal reaction in blends of color. It’s definitely not reproducing reality, but rather translating the interplay of light, shadow and the subsequent transformation of color to summon the viewer’s attention and involve them in the painting.
Since a very young age I recall landscape settings which fascinated me because of the effects created by the light. I spent much of my early life exploring and relishing the outdoors. Born and raised until the age of six in Matanzas, Cuba, I enjoyed magical moments of twinkling sunlight filtering through leafy canopies, and interesting shadows dancing on glowing building facades.
This early bond I developed with the land has flowed through all my life.
I have been painting for about 10 years. My journey started with watercolors; currently I work in pastels which I discovered in the summer of 2006.
I paint what I know intimately and enjoy the most-the outdoors.
CV/Bio
Born: 1954, Matanzas, Cuba
Current Residence: Tucson, AZ and Patagonia, AZ
Education: MS 1984 Horticulture University of Minnesota, BS University of Maryland
Art Instruction: Mostly self-taught, although college included various classes in design principles and drafting. Workshops with professional artists: Albert Handell, Stephanie Birdsall, Susan Ogilvie, Stephen Quiller, Diane Maxey, Frank Francese, Skip Lawrence. Studio classes with Nancy Bautzmann, Deanna Thibault, Ellen Fountain, Betina Fink, Pat Dolan
Influences: Van Gogh, Cezanne, John Singer Sargent, Winslow Homer, Georgia O’Keefe (we share the same birthday!)
Societies: New Mexico Pastel Society
Southern Arizona Watercolor Guild
Shows:
‘Amadeus’ 2009 at Tubac Center for the Arts
Southern Arizona Watercolor Guild 35th Annual Juried Show
