About The Artist
Jeannette Delmore
Passionately inspired to express the beauty that I witnessed in the New England Landscape, I began painting in oils soon after my first child was born.
Sharing my artwork with my community and participating in the various juried art shows, and grateful for accompanying awards, were both joyful and affirming experiences. During this period my artwork was commissioned by Better Homes and Gardens designing for their needlework magazine. My art studies at the University of Massachusetts were interrupted by a move to the midwest (in the early 80’s).
The lack of the lushness of the Eastern Landscape there shifted my attention to the wonderful faces that I observed all around me. It was at this time that I began to focus on pastel portraiture. Accepting commissions for my work was such a rewarding experience, truly taking delight in working with children. Also accepting commissions to paint beloved pets, especially those who had passed over the “rainbow bridge” brought such heartfelt satisfaction.
An unexpected return to Connecticut ( in the 90’s) reunited me with the extraordinary beauty of the woodlands of the East Coast. Continuing with my portrait commissions, I began to experiment with watercolor. The flow and mystery of this new transparent medium allowed me to express more fully the beauty, innocence and transcendent nature of children and of the natural world itself. The transparent layers that one could achieve seemed to hint at the very deep dimensions of life and the essence of nature and the human spirit.
Gratefully, I have studied with such signature artists as Barbara Nechis, Janet Rogers and the late Karlyn Holman among others.
Presently, I am an Elected Artist member of the Madison Art Society, Elected Artist member of the Clinton Art Society and an Associated Artist member of the Lyme Art Association, a member of “Women in Watercolor” currently participating in their online exhibition. As an Associate member of “The American Watercolor Society” I was fortunate to be juried into their 2023-2024 International Associate Artists online exhibit. Continuing to enjoy and appreciate my representation by the Spectrum Gallery in Centerbrook, my work can be seen at the Gallery and in their online catalog.
Artist Statement
My painting experience, my art, I would describe as a deep emotional response to the natural world around me.
When working in plein air where I am responding to what I actually see and feel in nature, my work is somewhat impressionistic, that is, more of a feeling response than an exact rendering of place or subject. Although having to deal with a myriad of challenges to work in Plein air such as wind, insects, rain and such, the experience of responding directly in the moment to Nature in all its beauty and light makes the process so worth the inconveniences. It is as if one is experiencing the very breath of Nature.
In my intuitive work, I might start with no clear subject in mind, but place a stroke of color or a wash on a clear sheet of paper, then allow the movement of the paint, the color and my inner responses dictate an idea. The process of discovery and responding to what occurs is most enjoyable and challenging. The final work is to bring all the pieces together to result in a finished piece of art.
One of the most enjoyable aspects of my art experience is in the sharing of my art with others. The unspoken but obvious question arises “ Do you feel it too?” This sharing initiates the most enjoyable conversations and deep connections.
It becomes so apparent how bonded we are in our love of nature and our need to connect in a meaningful emotional way as fellow humans.