Ann Marie Watson - Beautiful Art Becomes a Happy Surprise to Viewers. By: Karen L McCarty

I’m pleased to feature Ann Marie Watson on this Artist Spotlight Blog post.

Ann Marie Watson grew up in the country. Her paintings reflect agricultural scenes; of pastures, where cows happily munch on grasses, fields and farms. Ms. Watson has become skilled at recreating scenes, remembered from her childhood, in her beautiful oil paintings. They reflect her English ancestry, which dates back to King George. She describes one of the original homestead: a farm, that was primarily maintained by the women. Ann Marie learned about her early inspiration; her Great Aunt Bessie, who preserved life on the farm, utilizing her artistic skills with a camera as early as 1910. She pays Aunt Bessie tribute with her Facebook name of “Aunt Bessie and Me Originals”.

Ann Marie was introduced to artistic work early in life. As a child she learned delicate needle work. She began to learn from the work of artists she admired for their use of color. She has always been drawn to pretty things; the beauty of colors …. Art and even paint stores can become an environment that might offer inspiration for her work.

She describes herself as timid when it comes to art. Even though she may feel the stress of being a perfectionist, once she is committed to start a painting, she pushes herself without being critical and is “happily surprised” when her work looks completely believable upon completion. She prefers oil over other types of mediums and celebrates when she’s put the paint on the canvas just right.

Ann Marie attended Central Carolina Technical College and became a registered nurse in 1994. She went on to obtain her baccalaureate degree of nursing at USC Columbia 1996. In 2002 she graduated from the University of South Carolina School of Medicine with a masters degree in Biomedical Science with an emphasis on Nurse Anesthesia. Ms. Watson has worked as a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist ever since. She honed her artistic skills by taking classes at art galleries, learning from other artists such as Melina, an art major at Bob Jones University and JJ Oklinger, a local artist here in Greenville.

It seems, to this author, that Ms. Watson has harnessed her perfectionism to become the fine artist she is today. I strongly suggest making time to stop by the White Rabbit Fine Art Gallery in Travelers Rest. Ask at the desk for the Docent to show you the fine work of Ann Marie Watson. We truly appreciate her talent and I’m certain you will as well

You can see more of Ann Marie Watson’s art on Facebook under “Aunt Bessie and me originals” and on instagram.

Joe McKinney - “Outstanding Works of Art - from Giclee Prints to Murals” by Karen L McCarty

he uses an old chip brush from a hardware store. He then fixes the bristles to points to create his special effects.

Joe is a working Artist. When he’s not teaching full time at a Greenville Bible College, planning, sketching or painting a larger than life mural or creating one of his outstanding works of art for a commission or display in an art gallery, he’s probably considering the numerous ideas that live in his imagination, such as the song “Sweet Dreams Are Made of This”, which prompted one of his a soulful paintings. He tells me there may be hundreds of these such images, waiting for a canvas. 

Mr. McKinney discovered art in High School, where his journey began. Afterward, he studied at USC in Charlotte, where he learned to paint in a surrealistic style. He expanded his knowledge as a Bible College student, where he also studied and was influenced by the Greek and Theology. He still studies the work of the old masters; Monet, and other museum artists, have had a profound influence on the unique style he has developed over the years. He even had a Salvatore Dali phase, early in his artistic journey.

Mr. McKinney’s experience is varied. He has painted life-like murals for twenty five years, at least one of which adorns a space as large as two stories in a local high school. He painted a 40’ x 100’ wall outside, in full sunlight in July. Understandably, since then his concentration has been on inside projects; where, although large, he is not at the mercy of the elements. 

Joe loves the process of art. I asked about how his unique style seen in his work on display at the White Rabbit Fine Art Gallery in Travelers Rest. He tells meHe usually does have a specific plan for his paintings, but this can be over-worked at times. Joe plays with colors and color reversal, evident in his “Late Evening Beach Scene”, where he features muted blue colors (the time of day makes this one very special), and his “Table Rock Trail” with a mystic background. 

Joe McKinney’s work can be seen in 130 public schools throughout South Carolina, as well as on the Swamp Rabbit Trail. There is a large mural of the Mavericks; their mascot at Mauldin High School. A very special mural has been painted of a zoo scene at Brooke Glenn Elementary School. 

If you’ve yet to see Mr. McKinney’s work, I urge you to make time to visit the gallery. Ask the Docent at the desk to direct you to his work. If you appreciate fine art you will find his work extraordinary. We, at the White Rabbit, are indeed fortunate to feature Joe McKinney as one of our fine guest artists. 

Visit Joe McKinney on-line at FineArtAmeria.com. And don’t miss JoeMcKinneyMurals.com 

Jeff Goodman’s Whimsical Characters See Lots of Smiles By: Karen L McCarty

This week, I had the pleasure of getting to know Jeff Goodman, our newest guest artist at White Rabbit Fine Art Gallery in Travelers Rest, SC. His playful sculptures have been delighting visitors—and it’s easy to see why.

Jeff creates whimsical, clay characters that bring on smiles and audible “ahhs” from everyone who stops by. His goal as an artist is simple: to delight and amuse. Judging by the laughter around his display, he’s certainly succeeding.

Jeff’s sense of humor is evident in each of his creations. Take Dragon Bunny, for example—a large, wood-fired rabbit with dragon wings… and yes, bunny slippers! It’s a clever and charming combination that leaves a lasting impression. Jeff credits his mother for passing on this light-hearted view of the world.

Before devoting himself fully to sculpture, Jeff had a successful 26-year career in computer graphics as Design Director for WYFF Channel 4. Even then, his interest in clay had already taken root. When he retired, his coworkers gifted him a pottery wheel—an unforgettable gesture that launched his next creative chapter. He began studying pottery, taking classes after moving to Greenville, and gradually evolved from wheel-thrown pottery to imaginative sculptural work.

Jeff’s work was featured in a 2023 exhibit at the Metropolitan Arts Center in Greenville. One standout piece was Space Cowboy, a 12″ x 12″ figure riding in a quirky, bird-like spaceship. The joy and laughter his work inspired encouraged Jeff to dive even deeper into the whimsical side of clay.

Today, he draws inspiration from fellow potters, including Master Potter Rob Gentry. Jeff is part of a wood-firing group that gathers regularly in Pendleton to fire their work in a massive kiln built by Gentry, which reaches temperatures up to 2,500 degrees. The camaraderie and creativity of the group fuel Jeff’s passion.

We invite you to visit the White Rabbit Fine Art Gallery and meet Jeff’s delightful cast of characters. Not quite human, not quite animal—but always full of personality—they’re guaranteed to lift your spirits. Go ahead… we dare you not to smile!

Shradha Gupta … Expertly Captures Nature’s Wonder and Beauty By: Karen L McCarty

This week I had the privilege of enjoying a special interview with a skillful and accomplished artist in watercolor, oils, and acrylics and is passionate about capturing nature’s beauty and wonder in her paintings. It is my pleasure to shine our “Artist Spotlight” on Shradha Gupta.

Ms. Gupta began her artistic journey very early in life. She has been painting since she was a child. She discovered the process brought her peace and tranquility. Shradha received solid, formal training in artistic techniques and holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree. She also studied Web Development, which peaked her interest in digital art. Shradha honed her skills and further developed this approach by pursuing a Master of Fine Arts in the visual art field. This training taught her to combine the skills she acquired in traditional painting with abstract art forms. She continues to be inspired by these techniques today. She states “I strive to balance realism with dynamic brushwork to convey the mood of the scenes I depict … celebrating the beauty of nature.”

Shradha finds endless inspiration in the natural world. Her favorite subjects may be found in the gentle flow of a waterfall, the petals of a delicate flower, the serenity of clouds, the graceful movements of animals, and ever-changing landscapes. The elements of these natural themes speak to her on a deep, emotional level. Nature’s colors, textures, and rhythms ignite her creativity and bring a sense of calm and wonder that is her aim to capture on canvas and share with the viewer.

Each of Ms. Gupta’s subjects tells a story and her paintings reflect that for the viewer’s delight. She states “painting allows me to connect with these moments of beauty and share them with others, hoping to evoke the same peace and joy that nature gives me.” She further explains that, as she paints, each brushstroke is a way to celebrate the quiet power of the outdoors; a reminder to slow down and appreciate the world’s simple, breathtaking details.

We, at the White Rabbit Fine Art Gallery in Travelers Rest are fortunate indeed to have Shradha Gupta as one of our talented guest artist’s. I urge you to plan a trip to the gallery to see the work of this fine artist. As you gaze on her expressive paintings, experience the calm and peacefulness that bring joy to the soul.

Visit Shradha Gupta on her website, artshra.com, on Facebook,FineArtShra and Instagram @art by shradha.greenvillesc. Shradha’s work is also on display in multiple gallery locations in South Carolina.

Jesse Yancy …. Skilled Blacksmith - Creates Beautiful Works of Art. By: Karen L McCarty

We are pleased to feature a guest artist, with a very different slant on artistic creation. Introducing Jesse Yancey, White Rabbit Fine Art Gallery’s resident Blacksmith. I had never met a blacksmith before Jesse arrived at our gallery, and was amazed at the talent it takes to forge metal into such unique items.

Jesse takes cold metal; copper, steel and aluminum, and, using a forge to  heat to a temperature of 1,500 degrees, forms it into beautiful knives, tools and keepsakes. Mr. Yancey describes himself as a self taught Blacksmith. He states “I wanted a way to use forgotten and discarded pieces of metal, to give them new life by creating beautiful art.” Blacksmithing has offered him a means to do just that.

Jesse has always had a strong work ethic, taught by his father. Of his dad, Jesse states “he never quit, he was strong, steady and calm, he worked hard to send me to college” Jesse’s work is a testament to his Dad and the skills and attributes he acquired from him are invaluable in forging the delicate items in such extreme heat. 

Jesse’s work is sought after in South Carolina. He often offers live demonstrations of his artistic process. These demos always attract crowds, in which first time viewers invariably become Jesse Yancey fans.

By the way, he creates special projects such as broaches, knives and hooks but also creates everything from pendants to chains or other ideas offered from his fans and happily delves into individual commissioned work. His favorite pieces and favorites of our gallery guests are forged hair-pins. One of a kind, these keepsakes are often bought as special gifts, to be passed down to the next generation.

Something else is apparent when you meet Jesse …. He loves interacting with the public and always has fun. He enthusiastically states “this is the best job I have ever had.” That is certainly unmistakable when you interact with Jesse. I asked him what he enjoys most about his art-form. Without hesitation he states he appreciates that his art is unique and truly One-of-A-Kind.

If you haven’t yet met Jesse, stop by the White Rabbit Fine Art Gallery. I guarantee you will marvel at his art-work and depart feeling as though you’ve made a new friend. 

Visit Jesse on Instagram and Facebook at Trashpuppyforge.com

Welcome, Doris Dare, Talented Artist With A Passion for Nature By: Karen L McCarty

I’m honored to present our newest permanant artist at The White Rabbit Fine Art Gallery, Doris Dare. I recently interviewed her for this piece. I am pleased to introduce her to you. 

Growing up, Doris lived in both Jacksonville, FL and Monks Corner, SC. As a child, she was home schooled and involved in her church. Before she was able to write, Doris began to develop her talent by drawing and doodling. She was showing her art at age 16. 

Ms. Dare has experience in pen and ink and acrylics, however her medium of choice is watercolor. Although she is drawn to the transparency and beauty of watercolor layers, she tells me, she often feels the need to add a little something extra to her paintings … “a sparkle or glint”. That special touch draws the viewer into the scene, and is evident in her painting, “Sand Hill Cranes”, showing now at the White Rabbit Fine Art Gallery in Travelers Rest. 

Doris finds joy in painting “the magnificence of nature and creation”. She credits that influence to Agnes Labby, School Librarian, who introduced her to the word of books about nature. Here, Doris developed a passion for endangered species.

In addition to Doris’ wonderful nature paintings, the gallery is showing her beautiful pet portraits. Doris is available for commission work, giving you an opportunity to engage her for a remembrance of your beloved pet.

In interviewing Doris, I was delighted to find a warm, talented artist, with a passion to introduce the beauty of created living creatures through her art. You, simply must come by the gallery see Doris’ work. You can also see her on Facebook.

Pam Kelley …. Painting Peace and Beauty into Every Scene by: Karen L McCarty

I am thrilled to introduce our featured guest artist, Pam Kelley, on our Artist Spotlight. Her work invites you to pause, breathe, and step into a world of calm and beauty.

Pam was professionally trained in Commercial Design (BFA) at Barton College, where she learned the techniques of watercolor painting. Afterward, Pam attended Meredith College and was introduced to Acrylics. Pam’s education laid a strong foundation, but it was an art course with artist Erin Webb in Easley in 2020,  that was the influence toward Pam’s passion for soft pastels. Pam remembers the minute she touched the chalk to canvas, as a pivotal moment. Since then, pastels have become her favorite, offering her the perfect tool to express what she feels most deeply through color and texture.

Her work reflects a love for impressionistic style, drawing inspiration. She draws upon influence from from her late mentor and professor, J. Chris Wilson, whose influence is felt in her landscapes, and Susan Jenkins, of Monet Cafe.  “I want the viewer to feel he/she is looking at a scene they would like to spend time in” she says. Her hope? That her paintings offer a sense of calm and peacefulness.

While she’s known for landscapes on a larger scale, she’s now exploring the charm of smaller works just for our gallery visitors. Whether it’s a gorgeous landscape or a deeply personal portrait—of a beloved pet or cherished family member—her work invites a gentle connection.

Beyond the studio, her creativity extends to costuming for community theater productions, a testament to her diverse talents of art through storytelling.

We’re honored to feature guest artist, Pam Kelley at the White Rabbit Fine Art Gallery. Her pieces are more than just beautiful—come, experience peacefulness in a busy world … see her work today and calm your spirit.

Sheneen Farrel - “A Personal Story of Success in Sculpting Polymer Treasures” by: Karen L McCarty

Sheneen Farrel is a popular guest artist at the White Rabbit Fine Art Gallery. She works with polymer clay to create items that bring others joy. It is my honor to feature Sheneen for our Artist Spotlight website blog.  Sheneen is a delight and her story is a special one.

Sheneen credits her Mom, who taught her daughter to love creating. She learned sewing, crochet, and other crafts. But, Sheneen discovered polymer clay in 2022. Faced with the sudden death of her beloved spouse, Sheneen found sculpting small treasures was therapeutic and brought her joy at a time in her life when she needed it most. Her husband was artistic and, when faced with this loss, she turned to something familiar …. Art. Although she didn’t realize it back then, Sheneen’s creative talents would not only offer her solace but would, in time, become a source of steady income to secure the future for herself and her son, Porter.

She started teaching herself how to create colorful earrings, necklaces and other items, at first for her own pleasure and for gifts. But she discovered something else in the process. Whenever she wore something she had made others would not only admire the item but would ask her if she would make jewelry for them too. 

Sheneen discovered there was seemingly no end to the themes her friends requested. There were earrings that looked like tiny books, deviled eggs, jars of Dukes mayonnaise and countless others, including her most requested item to date, Little Debbie Cakes. With each new request, Sheneen taught herself the techniques she needed to produce these whimsical treasures. She tells me it was trial and error. 

Today, Sheneen enjoys a thriving business making and selling polymer clay jewelry. An activity that started as therapy; creating for her friends and co-workers has indeed become larger than life. Sheneen admits she works all the time. But she loves the process. And when you listen to her talk about the items she creates, her enthusiasm and excitement is contagious. When asked what brings her joy these days, she replies, without a doubt …. She has fun making her jewelry and framed objects and hopes that her fans and customers feel the same when they see them.

Sheneen’s biggest motivator in her life story has been her son, Porter. She teaches him about the power of creativity and the techniques required to formulate and start a business of his own. He’s starting on a small scale. He already realizes monetary rewards for his ideas and steps he takes to help in the family business. After-all, he is a young boy however, thanks to his mom, there is no doubt he is also a future entrepreneur. 

Visit Sheneen Farrel in many open air markets, from Saluda to Greer and beyond. Recently Ms. Farrel is set up in the West-side Augusta Market in Greenville and of course, our favorite … The White Rabbit Fine Art Gallery in Travelers Rest.

Gerri Green - “Extraordinary Representational Art” by Karen L McCarty

Gerri Green has been painting since she was a child of ten. Encouraged by both parents; her mother supplied paint-by-number sets for her enjoyment. When Gerri was 12 years old her father gave her a set of oil paints. She has painted ever since and today paints six to seven hours every day. Gerri states, “An Artist needs to work all the time in order to improve.” 

Growing up in Canada, she developed an appreciation for the beauty of nature and learned to paint professionally with Canadian Artists. She studied the work of a group of seven Canadian Artists, who traveled across the country in the 1920’s, painting landscapes on small canvases in Plein-Air style. They would then return to the studio to re-create their scenes on large canvases. Gerri describes herself as an Art History Nerd. She studies and views art daily and is then inspired to paint her next scene.

Gerri’s choice of colors and her unique style make her work strikingly beautiful. She tells me a tree, for instance, isn’t always brown and green. She paints in a representational style. Her art portrays real-life objects, in varying degrees of naturalism …. She explains “even when a piece portrays odd colors and exaggerated figures, they are still recognizable and real-world objects, making them representational.”

Gerri enjoys “the challenge of decoding a scene.” She first considers the shapes and colors of elements. She uses small brushes to outline areas of the painting. Then she works on the details; small nooks and crannies, streams, perhaps in blues, grays and greens. She says she’s learned, “not to consider what viewers will like”, her mantra “just do what you do.” Her landscapes pop with color and leave a lasting impression in the viewer’s mind. 

During Covid, when, it seemed the world shut down Gerri stayed motivated by capturing the beauty of the South Carolina mountains. Much of Gerri’s art-work today reflects gorgeous familiar local scenes, that command the viewers attention. 

At home Gerri’s life is immersed in art. She has surrounded herself with beautiful artistic treasures. Her favorite piece pays homage to her grand-daughter; a painting of a young girl picking apples at Sky-top. 

For a rare treat, plan a trip to Travelers Rest, to the White Rabbit Fine Art Gallery on Main Street. There, you will fall in love with the work of Gerri Green. 

Where History Meets Art …The Photography of Tim Corzine by: Karen L McCarty

Marina Glow … by Tim Corzine

Tim is a self-taught landscape and architectural photographer. He and his wife live in the upstate of South Carolina. During the 1960s, still images captured by his grandparents and parents in his native Western North Carolina inspired his love for photography. 

His style is influenced by his love of history, travel, architecture, and the natural world around all of us. For 40 years he has photographed the places where he has lived and visited. An education in Chemical Engineering led to a career in manufacturing and consulting, during which time he continued to hone his photography skills, focusing more on the detail and composition of his work. 

Tim most enjoys working in larger format high resolution digital images preserved on metal and acrylic surfaces where the detail and color are exquisite. He has traveled across the US as well as to Scotland, England and France in order to capture that special image. His future plans include trips to our nation’s national parks. 

Tim is an artist member of the Greenville, South Carolina Metropolitan Arts Council, and a juried member of the South Carolina Artisans Center. 

His work can be seen in the dining rooms of Northampton Wine and Dine in Greenville. Mr. Corzine’s largest body of work is available through tim-corzine.pixels.com. We are fortunate, indeed to have Tim as one of our newest guest artists at The White Rabbit Fine Art Gallery in Travelers Rest. Stop in and enjoy the photographic talent of Tim Corzine. 

Mary-Annn Cosgrove …. Beautiful Art Becomes a Happy Surprise for Viewers

By: Karen L McCarty

One of the joys writing this blog is getting to know the talented artists who bring life, color, and creativity to our gallery. This edition of Artist Spotlight introduces a very special guest artist: MaryAnn Cosgrove, a painter whose love of nature and people radiates through her vibrant, realistic landscapes. 

MaryAnn is often found outdoors, easel set up in the open air, painting plein-air in the tradition of 19th-century artists. One of her favorite spots is the Swamp Rabbit Trail. If you’re lucky, you might catch her there, brush in hand, capturing a moment of light and shadow. Don’t be shy, she welcomes conversation and delights in meeting curious passersby, both young and old. “I hope others will see something of beauty and feel joy from my work”, she shares. 

MaryAnn’s passion for art began as a child. She was constantly sketching, doodling, and experimenting with color. In high school, her talent was nurtured by her art teacher, Mr. Bryan, who encouraged her to pursue art seriously. That path led her to art school in New York City, where she studied the Reilly Method; a classic technique focused on rhythm, form, and the timeless principles of the old masters. Under the guidance of John Murray, she deepened her understanding of structure and composition. Later, she continued her studies in one of Americas oldest artistic communities in Massachusetts, further enriching her technique and vision. 

MaryAnn approaches each painting with thoughtful intention. I plan more now, rather than just jumping in, she says. Her process begins with charcoal sketches, carefully considering values and composition. Then, she often creates an underpainting before building layers in acrylic or oil, bringing the scene to vibrant life. 

In addition to her landscape work, MaryAnn accepts commissions creating stunning, lifelike portraits of beloved pets. One such piece, titled Fancy, is currently on display at our gallery. 

You can enjoy more of MaryAnn’s artwork on her website, MaryAnnCosgrove.com, on Facebook, and of course, right here at White Rabbit Fine Art Gallery. Stop by and see her heartfelt work for yourself. It just might make your day a little brighter.

Cindi Berry-Extraordinary Painterly Oils

The Sentinal

I recently had the pleasure of interviewing Cindi Berry, an accomplished artist who creates beautiful, vivid oil paintings. We are proud to have Cindi as a guest artist at the White Rabbit Fine Art Gallery in Travelers Rest. When you view Cindi’s oil paintings it’s abundantly clear she is extremely talented. I also found her to be humble and approachable. 

I’m thrilled to feature Cindi on our Artist Spotlight blog post today.

Cindi discovered and enjoyed drawing and painting as a young child. As an adult, since her career as an attorney kept her busy, she did not begin to paint until 1999. When retirement offered the time she needed to pursue painting, she was devoted to learning all she could about the art. Once she developed an interest in oils there was no holding her back. She studied, took numerous classes and learned from successful artists whose work inspired her. One of those artists was Robert Johnson, with whom she took in-person courses in Vienna, Virginia and a weeklong workshop at the Scottsdale Artists School. (See more about Mr. Johnson by visiting his website at www.Robertjohnsonart.com). Another artist who influenced Cindi’s work was the late Richard Schmid, Master Oil Artist. 

Today, Cindi paints from her home studio in Cliffs Valley, where she has a firsthand view of the beautiful mountainous scenery as well as the Saluda watershed and the wildlife who reside there. She marvels at nature’s offerings, including the occasional bear sighting. 

Cindi’s repertoire of subjects is vast. She describes a pipe organ she saw in a beautiful church in Brussels, Belgium. The organ was a decorative golden color and Cindi couldn’t resist capturing the light that shone on the instrument. She tells me it took a long time to do just that but she didn’t stop until the project was complete. 

Over time, Cindi’s focus has become more of a painterly style. She states, “I’m not so focused on replicating everything I see in a setting or a photograph but more on creating a beautiful painting through the use of interesting brushstrokes, variety in color and shapes and determining when to soften edges and which ones to keep sharp.” “In other words,” she continues, she’s trying to enhance what she sees and eliminate the “noise and other distracting elements.” One of her favorite paintings is of her nephew, she calls “The Sentinel” pictured above.

Whether she’s painting pets as portraits, wild animals or capturing the beauty of nature, capturing an animal’s essence, through the eyes, Cindi Berry is masterful, in this author’s opinion. But you mustn’t take just my word for that. Cindi’s paintings are well worth the trip to the White Rabbit Fine Art Gallery in Travelers Rest. She believes art should be enjoyed, “it should make you happy and bring you a certain amount of joy” and indeed, Ms. Berry’s artwork does exactly that for the viewer.

See more by visiting CindiBerryFineArt.com