Artist Statement
I approach each painting as a delightful challenge, a puzzle seeking completion, and an ode to the beauty of our surroundings. My ultimate reward is knowing that my work has captivated the hearts and minds of both friends and strangers. In a world of digital clarity, original artwork continues to offer a sense of mystery and enchantment. Through painting, I strive to forge connections between hearts and minds, unifying us through our shared experiences.
Biography
Jonathan McPhillips, a cum laude graduate of Connecticut College with a BFA in Fine Art, celebrates the coastal splendor of New England. Equally adept in the studio or on location, Jonathan's work encompasses harbors, beaches, vessels, and the distinct architecture of the coastal marine environment.
With an impressive list of awards and accomplishments, Jonathan's artistry has garnered national and international recognition. His work has been showcased in various U.S. embassies through the "Art in Embassies" program by the U.S. Department of State. As an esteemed member of various professional art organizations, including the Providence Art Club, The Salmagundi Club, NY, and the American Impressionists Society, Jonathan continues to evolve and inspire, bringing to life the allure of coastal New England.
Selected Recent Awards and Accomplishments
2023 Cape Ann Best Seascape Award
2023 Perkins Cove Paint Out Ogunquit, ME Second Place Award
2023 Almenera Collection International Art Honorable Mention, Cordoba, Spain
2023 American Impressionist Society National Second Place Award
2023 Paint Annapolis "Art on the Avenue" Third Place Award
2023 Lyme Art Association "Ship to Shore" Award of Merit
2022 Olmsted 200 Celebration, "Best Light in the Landscape" Award
2022 Cape Ann Plein Air "Quick Draw", First Place Award
2021 Cape Ann Plein Air, First Place Award
2021 Perkins Cove Paint Out, Ogunquit, ME, Second Place Award
2021 American Impressionists Society President's Choice Award, Omaha, NE
2019 Roux and Cyr International Fine Art juried show First Place Award, Portland, ME
2019 American Impressionists Society, Plein Air Magazine Award of Excellence, New York.
2018 "Silvio Valerio SCNY Award, Fall Auctions, Salmagundi Club, NY
2018 "Rosemary & Co. Brushes Award", Sylvia Maria Glesman Floral Exhibition, Salmagundi Club, NY
2018 134th Annual Members Exhibition, Gene Magazine Award for a Traditional Oil, Salmagundi Club, NY
2018 American Impressionist Society Signature Member Status
2015 The Museum Purchase Award, The maritime Gallery at Mystic Seaport, International Exhibition.
2015 "Best Sense of Mystery" Award, Olmsted Plein Air Invitational, Atlanta, GA.