This week’s featured artist: Chris Quinn, member since 2014:
ME: I was born in Washington, D.C. and grew up in Potomac, Maryland. In my early twenties I moved to New York City and got a job painting sets and furniture at Martha Stewart Living Magazine. It was there that I learned a great deal about paint, color, aesthetics, stains, effects, finishes; and the use of different types of brushes, sponges, and other methods of applying paint. I began drawing and painting in my free time and got hooked. After working there, I lived in Los Angeles, Mexico, Costa Rica, Colorado, and The Bahamas. Traveling and new experiences have always been a great source of inspiration to me. I moved to Annapolis last spring.
good, spread your wings
MY ART: I paint mostly in acrylic, oil, and oil enamel; and I like photography too. I don’t like to feel limited in expression, so I experiment with several different styles and techniques. I love color in all its millions of tints, tones, shades, hues, and how they can make you feel. Inspiration seems to come in cycles, and when it comes rushing in like a tidal wave, I write down all the ideas and draw sketches for potential paintings. Sometimes I dream about paintings, and then describe the vision in writing before it dissolves. I believe the subconscious plays a major role in any art form; and I find that the more I paint, the more the ideas come bubbling up into my conscious mind. Each work of art has a life of its own, and often ends up looking nothing like what I had envisioned. I think it is important to get out of your own way and let intuition take over. That is the real joy for me, really letting go like a child and just observing the magic of it all.
You can see my work on my Facebook page: Chris Quinn Art
MFA & ME: I became a member of MFA a little over a month ago. Several people around town had suggested that I join. I am especially grateful to Patrice Drago for being especially supportive. Everyone associated with MFA has been very kind, welcoming, and encouraging in every way. This month I was able to hang some work at MFA’s Holiday Gallery. I am glad I am a member and look forward to meeting more artists and taking advantage of future MFA opportunities and exhibitions.
Spread the word about…YOU: Every week, we feature an MFA member for “Me & My Art Monday.” If you would like to be featured, please submit a photo and three paragraphs: one each about YOU, YOUR ART, and MFA & YOU totaling approximately 350 words, to meandmyart@mdfedart.org.
