“My passion for our beautiful state inspires me. Rich saturated colors and vigorous strokes paint a Washington that is anything but grey and overcast!”
(PRWEB) April 12, 2012
Joanne Shellan’s solo art exhibition opens in May, at the Washington State Governor’s Mansion - joining a list of renowned artists including Jacob Lawrence and William Cumming who have achieved this recognition. A dozen of her exceptional landscapes and other pieces will grace the gallery in Olympia, where they will be displayed for one year. Fifteen thousand visitors and dignitaries will see her work during that time.
Beverly Graham, art curator for the Governor's Mansion Foundation, says that artists selected for the mansion gallery must reside in Washington State, and the works they exhibit must be “suitable to represent the state, even if abstract or semi-representational. Joanne is an outstanding talent and fully qualifies, as does her excellent art work.”
Initially painting in watercolor, Shellan now paints exclusively in oil. Her paintings are known for their saturated colors and confident brushwork. “The dense pigment and rich texture of oils express the art that’s always been inside me. In fact, my whole life, when I had dreams of paintings they were always oil paintings,” says the artist. Her work ranges from landscapes to figures, from still lifes to interiors. Nationally recognized artist Ned Mueller says, "Joanne has dedicated herself to develop her bold and confident style, sense of design and beautiful color – sharing her enthusiasm and love of life and art with an uncompromising honesty. She and her art are a pleasure to enjoy!"
Reflecting on her art, Shellan says growing up with two brothers who were almost a decade older led her to spend hours on her own “creating something from nothing.” Setting aside her love to create until her second child was in pre-school, she picked up a paintbrush and hasn’t put it down since. “It felt like my heart was on fire the I first time I touched a brush to canvas,” says Joanne.
In addition to exhibiting in galleries and juried shows, Joanne Shellan also accepts commissioned work. The artist donates 25% of her annual profits to local charities and donates thousands of dollars a year in paintings to auctions.
Reservations to view the show can be made by calling 360-902-8880 or through e-mail to tours(at)ga(dot)wa(dot)gov. A preview and portfolio of work can be seen at joanneshellan.com.
