Some Artists

For as long as I can remember, I've been enamored with fine art. By the time I reached college, I minored in art history and even took a few studio classes. The security guards at Boston's Museum of Fine Arts got to know me, although some were still wary of my habit of sitting in the middle of a gallery, often on the floor, studying my current favorite works.

My tastes have changed and evolved over the years. I've been drawn to nautical themes (not the cutesy cottage-y type) and portraits.

Ken Otsuka is a favorite. His oils of shells strewn along the shoreline are realistic, but are imbued with his individual vision.

Original Oil   " Whispers of Waves and Shells "   24 x 32 by Ken Otsuka

Ovid Ward also paints maritime related themes. His treatment of light is unique, as striking to me as the impressionists' work.

Print "High Tide" 22 x 13 by Ovid Ward

Lately, I've been discovering portrait artists. In particular, watercolor fascinates me because the combination of the medium and the subject matter is one of the most challenging for an artist.

Ali Cavanaugh's work is both stark and emotional. She captures the essence of young womanhood, imbuing her figures with a sense of both innocence and restlessness.

Profile of Neve by Ali Cavanaugh

Alyssa Monks combines water and portraiture to capture brief moments that are striking and even disturbing.

Smush 40x54, oil on linen, 2008 by Alyssa Monks

Stephen Scott Young's watercolor portraits also capture individual moments.

watercolor "Yellow Light - Study for Innocent" 13 1/2 X 9 1/2  by Stephen Scott Young

Kara Castro has mastered using watercolor to portray not just people but emotions.

watercolor "Lacrimosa" 10 X 20 by Kara Castro

Although enjoyable on the web, there's nothing quite like seeing a work in person. Looking for something to do this weekend? Why not visit a local gallery. You might find a new favorite artist.