From mixed media wall reliefs to watercolors of carousels, here is artwork from local D.C. area artists (often original pieces) for the nursery, the playroom, or even the homework nook in the kitchen. This is artwork that the kids won’t outgrow and that the whole family will love getting lost in.
Photo and Artwork: copyright Sean Hennessey
Sean Hennessey
Sean Hennessey is an artist whose main body of work includes a glass wall relief sculpture, a combination of drawing, painting and photography and found objects with kiln-cast window glass (think: a modern take on the wall reliefs you’d see in old, historic buildings done in vibrantly colored mixed media). Sean studied sculpture and philosophy in college, had brief stints working as an electrician and a beekeeper, was the painter and sculptor for the Shakespeare Theatre in D.C. and is now a full time artist. His eye for beauty, eclectic travels and child-like curiosity are reflected in his work. Pieces and prints start at $350.
Online: seanhennesseyart.wix.com
Photo and artwork: copyright Jill Telford
Jill Telford
Jill is a D.C. artist, author and educator and her influences include Jackson Pollock, Romare Bearden and Jean Michel Basquiat. Her work reflects a joyful curiosity as she tries to capture images and personal stories that resonate with her. She loves the process of creating art and believes it is process over product. Jill loves the unique feeling of the canvas and only does originals. Jill believes that art is for creating and sharing and all prices on her work are negotiable. She is also available to commission pieces.
Online: zhibit.org
Photo and Artwork: copyright Lynn Putney
Lynn Putney
Lynn’s work in casein paint on wood calls to mind the most gorgeous illustrations you’ve seen in your favorite kids’ books. The bright combinations of colors, rich textures and unexpected curves are images that your little one can daydream into. Lynn’s original paintings range in scale from 6 to 30 inches square and start at $300. Visit her studio (Off the Beaten Track Warehouse in Northeast D.C.) to get a close up look at her paintings and prints.
Online: lynnputney.com
Photo and Artwork: copyright Mary Belcher
Mary Belcher/Washington Watercolors
Mary’s piece “A Watercolor Map of the Neighborhoods of Washington, D.C.” shows district nabes done in dreamy contrasting colors that reflect emotional and psychological boundaries (for now, kiddo will just think it’s a pretty cool map). Check out Mary’s other watercolor maps and city scenes like the Glen Echo carousel, Ben’s Chili Bowl and Georgetown rowhouses. Mary’s prints are sold matted, ready for standard-size frames and start at $15. Go out and meet Mary in person, as it’s the only way you can buy her beautiful watercolors. She’s at Eastern Market most weekends.
Online: marybelcher.com
Photo and Artwork, copyright Paige Hirsch
Paige Hirsch
Paige is an abstract painter living in the D.C. suburbs. She values the process over outcome and her work reflects lively interaction of shape and color and unexpected combinations. Paige’s work starts at $20 and she sells prints through her website.
Online: www.painterpaige.com
Do you have a favorite D.C. area artist? Brag about them in the comments section below.
–Monica Nelson
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