The Snapshot

• Bachelors Degree: State University of NY-New Paltz

• Masters Degree: State University of NY-Stony Brook

• Masters Degree from Fordham University

• Mystic Museum of Art Elected Artist Member

• Mamaroneck Artist Guild Elected Artist Member

• Westchester Community College, Permanent Collection

• Published Etchings in “Voyages”, State University of NY

Jean Cassidy

Kindergarten is when I first remember putting a mark on paper and feeling exhilarated.  The smell of the newsprint, the box of eight chubby crayons, the teacher asking me to draw my family and then seeing the marks become what I was thinking and feeling, it was magical.  I learned to recognize this sense of magic and joy in others and I observed it closely. I soon learned that using crayons was not the only way to say what I felt.

My grandfather was obsessed with his paint-by-numbers canvases.  I watched as he dipped his tiny brushes into pots of brilliant color transforming a white canvas into a thing of wonder.  With fabric, needles, embroidery thread, and crochet hooks, my grandmother proudly created her grandchildren’s clothes.  

My father used wood and nails, saws and hammers to create his visions for his family. There was an energy, a mindset of creativity all around me. I wanted to follow this joy no matter where it brought me.

After studying art at Stony Brook University, I began to explore many mediums; weaving, pottery, printmaking, photography, sewing, and painting.   Each one has influenced me and informed my work.  They are part of the creative journey.  The challenges of new mediums surprise me and keep me fresh.  I like to be challenged.

What I have learned along the way is that an artist has to have courage - courage to take risks, try new things, play the fool, and keep going when rejection and life itself seems intent on stopping you.  I received a good grounding in courage from my family. I can’t say the road has always been easy but I will say it’s been worth it. 

My artwork is currently on display at the Stonington Gallery and has been in dozens of galleries and shows over the years. I am in elected artist member of the Mystic Museum of Art. I have also exhibited at the Connecticut Fine Arts Academy.

I currently split my time between the coast of Connecticut and north central Florida. When I am not painting I enjoy hiking, biking, birding, Yoga, swimming and sailing. You can also find me exploring the incredible lands of the Haley Farm State Park.