Ok, so I couldn’t choose. Ahhh, the magical combination of shadow and light, sun and dark clouds… wow, this makes for one fabulous painting! This painting, entitled “The Boat Ramp” was done by Jonathan McPhillips, and appears in the Addison Art Gallery in Orleans, MA.

But then how this one captures the magical light, that special golden light that makes EVERYTHING look so good (why don’t they make light bulbs that reflect this golden shade?? Hmmmm!). “Before the Bustle” was awarded Honorable Mention at Gallery 297. Fabulous! Congratulations Jonathan!

Jonathan is in many galleries, so check out his website (VERY nice). Here is a short blip about Jonathan from his website, (but there is more, so check it out)! He seems like an interesting guy, he’s from Rhode Island, so if you’re in the area, check him out. I look forward to seeing his work in person one day!

“Collectors, fellow artists, and friends often comment on my work as having distinct and engaging “atmosphere”. I am so very appreciative of this recurring compliment. It is the air surrounding the landscape that I hope to depict in my paintings. The air is an unseen filter that guides how we visualize the “things” in front of us. In coastal New England, the atmosphere is always changing, therefore I am very fortunate to live and paint in such a visually engaging area.

Chasing the available light and air in our surroundings is what drives me to paint. I hope to achieve atmospheric effects with an impressionistic style, tempered by a touch of realism and draftsmanship. Painting large and small, indoors and out, I find that a multifaceted approach to studying and practicing allows me to achieve a unique quality in my work”.

JM 

Jonathan graduated from Connecticut College in 1993 with a Cum Laude Distinction in Fine Art. Now residing in Saunderstown, Rhode Island, Jonathan’s artwork has evolved into a celebration of coastal New England. Working equally in the studio and on location, his work includes the harbors, beaches, vessels, and architecture of our coastal marine environment.

Recent accomplishments include a juried acceptance into The Oil Painters of America Eastern Exhibition in October, 2010.  In addition, Jonathan was invited to participate in The Carmel Plein Air Art Festival in Carmel, California, and the Modern Marine Masters Exhibition at the Mystic Seaport Museum Gallery, both in May of 2011.

Awards and exhibitions span McPhillips’ career. Of note would be his 2004 First Place “Best of Fleet” Award at the New York Yacht Club in Newport, Rhode Island for “Courageous Convictions”, his 12 meter yacht replica.  Jonathan is also honored to have been invited by the U.S. Department of State to participate in the “Art in Embassies” program in 2006, which expanded his work to an international audience.

Jonathan has recently rediscovered the joy and personal fulfillment that teaching brings to an artist’s life. He periodically arranges workshops and courses in oil painting.  His artistic journey can easily be followed through social media and e-newsletters, as well as his blog and website. Video samples of selected works in progress are also available, and have been especially popular among his collectors and fans.

Catch you back here tomorrow!