Artist Spotlight Series: Wendy Concannon

March 27, 2017

Artist Spotlight Series: Wendy Concannon

Abstract Art, Art, Artist Spotlight Series, Photography, Wendy Concannon

I am excited to introduce you to a wonderfully talented photographer and artist that I met through social media then at High Point market.

My latest Artist Spotlight Series feature is one to watch.

Enjoy getting to know

Wendy Concannon

Philadelphia, PA

What is your training?

My earliest explorations of photography began in the darkroom of my childhood home. My grandfather and I shared a passion for this art and I fondly remember Saturday morning outings with him to the photo store to stock up on supplies. Looking back, I realize that the encouragement & support I received from family and teachers along the way was really so important and left a big impression.

I graduated from Penn State University with a degree in Communications, where I additionally focused my studies in Art History & Fine Art. With the introduction of digital photography, I did postgraduate studies at Moore College of Art in Philadelphia.

After learning the basic principles, to me the most valuable training is in the experience of just trying & doing – and that never ends!

What inspires you and your designs?

Color inspires me. I love to see interesting color combinations in nature. The giant purple allium globes in my mother’s English garden, with the shades of blue-green hosta in the backround. Walking in the nearby Wissahickon park where the colors change with the seasons – the warm autumn reds, yellows & oranges, and the most amazing moss wall that turns a velvety brilliant emerald in the summer months. Oceans are also awe-inspiring and to see the way the color changes with the light, my favorite combination being the jade green and light aqua blue.

This is one of my most recent pieces from my WATER SERIES:

What is your favorite piece?

Creating a new body of work is exciting and typically those new pieces become my new favorites. Most recently I’ve been working on some new abstracts for my LINES SERIES. Here is a peek at a pair I just finished …

I would be remiss if I didn’t include my two favorite photographs from an exhibit I did titled: BRILLIANT! The Queen, The Pageantry, and The People. A huge fan of Queen Elizabeth II, I have spent a lot of time photographing in London.

How has your area influenced your work?

As a freelance photographer, I am literally always looking through a lens. Local people, trends, fashion and design are constantly inspiring and Influential.

What is your favorite restaurant in (your city)?

The Dandelion Pub – Stephen Starr restaurant/pub in. Best seat is by the fireplace. My fav sandwich is the chicken & avocado on raisin-walnut bread.

Jansen: This fabulous little neighborhood restaurant recently opened. Chef/Owner David Jansen prepares the most amazing seared scallops and Beet salad.

What is your favorite cocktail?

An oaked California Chardonnay

or a French Rose from the Luberon Valley

How do you balance personal life and work?

Honestly I try my best, and really my children and husband do come first. However if you ask them, they will tell you I’m always busy working on a shoot or in the gallery. I’m constantly in the dog house because I tell my husband I’ll be home by 5:30, and I don’t walk in the door until 7. (Lucky for me, he is the dinner Chef)

Dream trip

On “the list” is:

Kyoto Japan during the Cherry Blossom Season – pagodas & Kimonos included, please. I hear it is just spectacular. The key is timing it right so you get to see the blooms (no guarantee on this one since Mother Nature is in charge!).

Dream commission?

A private commission for a client is always exciting and successful, because I can focus my energy on a specific assignment. A large public space – where I could go really large scale with my photographs would be so cool and dramatic.

Your favorite host / hostess gift to give?

My homemade chocolate chip cookies or oatmeal scotchies, tied up with pretty ribbons. I find baking very therapeuic and if I’m doing it for someone else it’s all the better!

Who is your style icon?

Jackie O – classic and chic. She reminds me of my mother.

Your favorite up and coming artist?

Karen Lesage – her canvases are simply beautiful

Donald Robertson – I love his style and clever wit

What is your most treasured possession?

My family photo albums.

Yes, I do it the old fashioned way. Matching navy leather albums – 1 or 2 for each year. They begin the year we got married (1992) and I’m proud to say I am up to date.

What are you reading?

The life-changing magic of tidying up: the Japanese art of decluttering and organizing. Somehow this little book accidentally ended up in my son’s Christmas pile. Not a very exciting read for an 18yr. old, I took claim of it. My closets now “spark joy” and I couldn’t be happier!