Local landscape artist in Palmer

Liza Darwin Guest Writer

Vincent Connelly’s Landscapes in the Mist, the latest exhibit at the James W. Palmer Gallery, premiered on Nov. 27. The paintings capture the mountainous landscape of Connelly’s home in Ulster County, New York.

Executive Director of Campus Activities Teresa Quinn said that Connelly, a native of Scotland, was brought to her attention by a friend at Vassar. “Following a visit to his studio on Mohonk Mountain, I was intrigued and very pleased to bring [Connelly] to Vassar to share his work,” said Quinn.

Motifs such as light and mist are important elements in Connelly’s paintings. Blues, grays, and pastel colors add to the calming effect of his work. Connelly uses pastels and oil on paper, and has cited American painter Wolf Kahn as one of his major influences, as well as the French artist Paul Cézanne. The poetic atmosphere of his work captures the magical imagery of the natural world.

Quinn said that Connelly provides a fresh perspective on traditional scenic paintings. “These works are delicate,” said Quinn. “However, they have a subtle energy that pulls the reader into the absorbing canvas.”

The Palmer Gallery will host an artist’s reception for Connelly on Friday, Dec. 8. Landscapes in the Mist will close on Dec. 20.