SHEILA NEWQUIST
I grew up loving pencil drawing, charcoal and pastels. Despite my passion for art, I went on to pursue a career in health care and raise three children. I returned to the pursuit of art in 2012 and intensified my focus on painting in watercolor. While I’ve had no formal art training, I’ve had the opportunity to study with many prominent regional artists including Ralph Acosta, Cindy Baron, Lorraine Bromley Brown, Bob Noreika, Natalie Pfhanstiehl, Susan Shaw, and Frances Topping. I've also had influence from the photography of my late father, Lane Newquist. Representational in style, I am drawn to landscapes, forests, flowers, seascapes, boats and still life.
My professional affiliations include juried artist member status with: Wickford Art Association, South County Art Association, Attleboro Art Museum, and Rhode Island Watercolor Society. My work has been exhibited at Spring Bull Gallery, Courthouse Center for the Arts, South County Art Association, The Hive RI, Edward Everett Hale House, and Gilbert Stuart Museum Bell Gallery. I began participating with West Bay Open Studios Tour in 2017, welcoming art lovers into my working studio space. During the summers I am an active member of Monday’s Palette, a plein air outdoor painting group, as well as an informal group led by Shaun Rock the remainder of the year as long as the New England weather is tolerable.
Born in St. Louis, Missouri, I have lived in Rhode Island most of my life. I currently reside in North Kingstown, RI.
Artist Statement
My paintings are an evolving process of development, as they are continually shaped by challenges moving me toward being a better painter. Painting is a form of mindful meditation, where I am inspired by nature and being outdoors. Leading a life in the arts has connected me in many ways to so many wonderful people, for which I am most grateful. I am hopeful that my work adds some beauty to this complicated world we live in.