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.

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.