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. For more information, contact Kathy Signorino, artist programs director, at kathy.signorino@oac.ohio.gov or 614-728-6140.
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.