Women in Art 278 Magazine April 2016 | Page 16

Irish artist Colleen Quinn Pastel, Charcoal Ever since I was a child I have been fascinated by the traditional understanding of relationships. Painting for me is about expressing a feeling or emotion through visual means. When I see something that moves me, I work to break it down to find the essence of what it is visually that makes the scene or person so appealing. The most effective education for me comes from observing life. My purpose in painting is to express emotion and beauty as I see it and for the viewer to enjoy a similar experience. My work is also strongly informed by my love of nature, rural life and all things natural. Ultimately, I hope my work emotes, moves and uplifts. I enjoy working with pastel, charcoal and ink. I love the way I can achieve completely different effects with the pastels on different surfaces. I am originally from Chicago, Illinois, USA where I earned my BFA in Graphic Design. I worked as a Graphic Designer for many years before moving to Ireland. My studio is in Co. Leitrim where I work and teach many classes to young and old. I am a founding member of the Solas Art Gallery in Ballinamore, Co. Leitrim.