The Ohio Artist Registry (OAR) is an exciting opportunity for artists to share their work, connect with the creative community, and establish an online presence—all on a free, virtual platform! The OAR encourages artists working in all art forms, throughout Ohio and beyond, to create a profile, which allows them to better promote themselves and their work. Being listed in the OAR provides artists with new opportunities to share their work with clients, galleries, patrons, and audiences. A listing in the OAR does not confer an endorsement, approval, or verification by the Ohio Arts Council.
For more information, contact Kathy Signorino, artist programs director, at kathy.signorino@oac.ohio.gov or 614-728-6140.
2024 Ohio Artist Registry Juried Exhibition
Connaught Cullen
Bio
I am a nice Irish-Catholic girl from the Midwest. I grew up in a large, lower- middle class family. After high school, I pursued a business degree from a community college. I did not know what I wanted to be when I grew up, but I reasoned if I ever did find out what I wanted to do with my life, business knowledge would be beneficial. Upon graduation from said community college I went to work in a local factory and worked there for thirty years.
Art and the art making process have always intrigued me, but I did not think I possessed the ability to draw, paint, etc. I believed artists were born not taught. Upon reaching the age of thirty, panic set in and I embarked on a physical and spiritual journey to find myself. Among other places this journey propelled me to Ireland. In preparation for the pilgrimage to the land of my ancestors I purchased a camera and a book on composing photographs. While viewing the resulting photography I experienced an epiphany. Through photography, I could gain entrance to the world of art.
Enrolling in the School of Art at BGSU in January of 1993, I acquired knowledge and ability in a variety of media. In particular, painting engaged my senses, my spirit, and my creativity. I responded to the immediacy, the colors, the textures, and even the smell of painting.
Since graduating from BGSU in 2000, I received a MA-Studio from Eastern Michigan University in 2011 and a MFA from Ohio University in 2015. I have participated in several group exhibitions regionally, nationally, and internationally. I am currently the Executive Director for Majestic Galleries in Nelsonville, Ohio.
Artist Statement
Walking through the woods is meditative, a place where problems are worked out and ideas formed. The mind and the brain become separated; the brain takes over the physical aspect of walking while the mind is busy elsewhere. When I view scenes that I find extraordinary, in need of further information to understand the brain reengages with the mind to provide the needed information. These are the scenes I choose to paint.