Peggy McGahan, Autumn 2017

The Nature Artists’ Guild’s Autumn (Holiday) 2017 Exhibition Featured Artist, Peggy McGahan

Although my first, halting artistic attempts in an introductory watercolor class at The Morton Arboretum looked less than inspired, I feel like it was love at first brushstroke! The classes at the Arboretum and the artists at The Nature Artists’ Guild have been absolutely fundamental in my love of art and the development of my artistic vision. So many people have encouraged me and helped me along my journey and have guaranteed that the Morton Arboretum will have a place in my heart forever!

My art is a reflection of my fascination with the natural world. I try to convey in my watercolors and drawings the delicate intricacy of flowers and leaves, the subtle beauty of tree bark and branches, and of things found on the ground during a walk in the woods.

I love the transparency and lightness of watercolor.  I especially enjoy this medium when painting flowers. I also enjoy drawing birds and plants and use colored pencils in an attempt to capture the texture and beautiful patterning I find in these treasures. Recently I have really been enjoying combining multiple media to achieve imaginative results.

I have had the privilege of working with and learning from many artists since those first artistic attempts at the Arboretum. I’ve also been privileged to work with those beginning an artistic journey of their own. All continue to excite and inspire me. Art has been a real joy in my life – a way to express my feelings about the simple beauty around us in the midst of our daily lives.