Backyard and Beyond in Watercolor Exhibit by Elaine Packard: May 6-July 2 at the McLane Center in Concord

Art exhibit viewing access may be restricted during private event rentals. Calling ahead to confirm is recommended.

Visit the McLane Center today to celebrate Elaine’s watercolor exhibit with the artist and NH Audubon staff!

Exhibit Description: Backyard birds, flowers, insects, and animals have been the inspiration for my watercolor journey. While I am fairly new to this medium, I don’t need to look very far for subject matter! Waterfowl and owls are favorites of mine as well, with their varied colors and textures.

I also enjoy the beauty of New England and like to take pictures of landscapes, mountains, lakes, and local landmarks to use as reference photos. A late summer (first-time) trip to the top of Mt. Washington last year via the Cog Railway was truly stunning and I plan to create a few more paintings with the incredible clouds, and distant mountain ranges.

Thank you for supporting the NH Audubon Society and I hope you enjoy my paintings and get a sense of the beautiful part of the country we live in!

Bio: From a young age, I found happiness in quiet little things; flowers, birds, animals and scenery and I have integrated them into my artwork. I took many art classes in my high school years and received an Art Scholarship to Rivier College (which wasn’t utilized). Later in life, time constraints of a full-time career and raising a family meant something needed to take the back seat. Life changes in recent years have allowed me the time to return to painting, which I am enjoying immensely!
I believe that continuous learning and being curious helps keep you young and I am currently discovering the beautiful subtleties and technical aspects of watercolor painting. I enjoy this medium very much, although I must admit; there have been some struggles along the way.

I tend to work towards realism, studying the little details of my subjects, moss on a tree branch or the anatomy of a birds’ wings. While birds and animals are some of my favorite subjects, seascapes and landscapes are a good challenge and learning opportunity.
One of my goals was achieved last year; to show my work in a gallery. This was an accomplishment for me personally. The growth from that experience will remain with me for a long time. Meeting art enthusiasts, collectors, and other artists is something I enjoyed and am eager to continue.

My hope is that you find a sense of peace and calmness in my artwork and allow your mind to slow down, notice the small things and enjoy nature, because that is what I feel when I am creating.