My story is a journey with many detours, but always coming back to painting. I have a lot in common with the Impressionists; however, I do not have a specific message – it is more like a conversation. I am fascinated by colors, shadows, reflections, and the play of light and space all around me.

Born in Long Island, New York , I studied art at the New York University College in New Paltz, New York in the 1970’s. A summer job turned into 19 years in the corporate world. In 1992 I met the love of my life. We married and lived in Connecticut. I joined the Washington Art Association in Washington Depot, Connecticut where I studied painting with Trey Friedman and Mathew Lopaz. At WAA, I especially enjoyed he weekly Figure drawing sessions and the camaraderie of the artists who attended.

Retirement in 2000 brought us to Big Pine Key – 30 miles from Key West, Florida, a whole new adventure. In the Keys, I won many awards and met extraordinary characters. I recommend Key West for any artist who is looking for something unique, but NOT during hurricane season. I was able to hone my skills at plein air painting as well as figure drawing. The Community College in Key West also offered a welding class which was also wonderful. Later, we moved to Covington, GA in 2009. Closer to family and so far, no need to evacuate every other week due to devastating hurricanes.

You can view and purchase my work at Southern Heartland Gallery, 1132 Monticello St. Covington, Georgia and WildArt Gallery 1105 Washington St. ,Covington, Georgia. My work is also in numerous collections in the US, Canada and Europe. See more of my work at my website is mcaldwellbrown.com.

When I start a painting, I put small notes of color all over the canvas and as the painting evolves, I incorporate these colors into the finished painting or not. Sometimes its a game of 'lost and found', if you know what I mean. All part of the process, I guess, physically and mentally. I tell my artist friends, I’m from the Waffle House School of painting – my paint application method is "diced, scattered, smothered and covered”. Besides traditional painting, my recent work includes collages and painting on driftwood.

I enjoy creating with oil paint, acrylics, watercolor and pastel as well as pencil and charcoal. If I could get some welding tools together, you never know where that would lead! I will accept work on a commission basis, such as portraits, houses, etc. Please contact me if you are interested. Thank YOU. 'EARTH without ART is 'EH'!