Artists Open Studio Dates:

Nov. 24, 25, 26 & Dec. 2, 3

Early in her career Shauna was selected to be Resident Artist at Yellowstone National Park, and more recently was chosen to be Resident Artist at The New Britain Museum of American Art. She has exhibited and won awards in international competitions around the country, including Oil Painters of America, Hudson Valley Art Association, New England and Northeast Watercolor Society, Renaissance in Pastel, and Academic Art Association Exhibits. A full time professional painter for more than 45 years, Shauna is now an Artist and Board Member of Hudson Valley Art Association, as well as a Signature member of CT Pastel Society, Lyme Art Association, Arts Center East, New England Watercolor Society, and CT Plein Air Painters Society. In 1988 Shauna founded Artists Open Studio, which now after 34 years promotes the work of more than 70 artists in the Northeast Corner of Connecticut.

A popular demonstrator and teacher, Shauna takes pride in her ability to convey to others how to see and understand the visual world in a way that makes their artistic journey enjoyable and productive. Positive and energetic, her versatility is showcased in her effective and inspirational instruction in drawing, oil, pastel, acrylic, and watercolor. Students can join her classes at the West Hartford Art League, Glastonbury Art League,  and in her own studio in Storrs, CT.

Artist Statement:
My paintings are saturated with light, color, and energy informed by years of painting from life. Whether oil, watercolor, acrylic or pastel, my paintings reflect a solid academic training as well as the ability to communicate the unique atmosphere and emotional intention found within each scene.

I paint each day feeling the tradition of America's plein air masters close behind me, immersed in the light and atmosphere of the day. There is simply no substitute for the experience and first-hand observation of nature that occurs when painting from life. As an art teacher for 40 years, I now understand that the artistic journey takes time and practice to master, like learning to play a musical instrument. What people call “talent” is better described as the passion that allows joy every moment one is immersed in the practice of their art. My own artistic life is dedicated to achieving the skill, knowledge, and nuance that makes communication in a perfect brush stroke as descriptive and powerful as the perfect phrase in a poem.

Another creative outlet is my sculpture garden, open to visitors anytime. A seven-foot lion and a planted peacock stand guard over a stone Koi pond, fountains and a Garden Lady with a skirt made of blossoms – highlighting the whimsy visitors have delighted in while exploring this artistic space.

I simply live to share ideas, whimsy, and a bit of beauty to those who love gardens and art.

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