Sitting outside on a summer's day learning to observe and paint the sky was my first oil painting lesson. I was 10 years old and out with a local artist who was instructing me. From that point on I was committed to depicting the beauty I saw around me. As I grew up, I sought out instruction with other artists and studied painting and art history at the University of Illinois. I furthered my training at the American Academy of Art, Chicago, and Atelier Lack, Minneapolis. This varied course of study gave me an interest in and respect for traditional painting methods which I have pursued to this day.
My love of the natural world and unending curiosity about the flora and fauna that surrounds me has turned into a consistent focus of my artwork. I am daily inspired by the colors, forms, tones and textures of nature.
Professional Affiliations
Oil Painters of America, Associate Member
© Gillian Menees Magee. All Rights Reserved.