Dreams and Goals

As an art student 15 years ago my dream goal was to have my work in a real gallery. It seemed so far-fetched but the simple reality was that I never thought it was possible. Looking back, I have to pinch myself that I get to paint in this cozy little space, have work in five galleries across the east coast, and people actually buy my work! My message to young artists and those struggling with self-doubt is not to ever let a rejection letter or the opinions of others stop you from continuing towards your dream. Being an artist is the hardest job I’ve ever had (well, tied with being a mom) and while it is a continuing struggle it is something I couldn’t live without.

Rose Quartz and Serenity

I recently noticed a large number of pieces I painted over the summer and fall had big hints of Pantone's Color of the Year, Rose Quartz and Serenity. What do you think?? These two are available for purchase at Covet in Arlington. Left: Out Like a Lamb, acrylic on canvas, 30" x 30". Right: Peachy Internodes, acrylic on canvas, 24" x 48".

Delicious Texture

I've been working on a series of small heavily textured oil paintings inspired by the cherry blossoms in DC. The first in the series, Afterglow Cherry, 10" x 10", oil on canvas, now available at www.annmariecoolick.com.

Loving this Winter Studio Light

Unexpected effect on this in-work painting from backlighting. #modernart #studio

A photo posted by Ann Marie Coolick (@amcoolick) on Jan 6, 2016 at 2:31pm PST

Tropical Inspiration

I visited the US Botanic Garden in Washington, DC last month and was completely inspired by the bounty of lush palm trees in the Tropical Room. If you haven't been yet, you must!! Here are the first few pieces in my Tropical Canopy series to be continued this winter. Both pieces are available at www.annmariecoolick.com

Above: Tropical Canopy, acrylic on canvas, 36" x 36".

Above: Detail of Tropical Canopy

Above: Bermuda Palm, acrylic on canvas, 20" x 20".

Detail of Bermuda Palm.

Below: photos from the Tropical Room.

Montalto delle Marche

This Christmas I was honored to be chosen for a special commission of Montalto delle Marche, a village in the Province of Ascoli Piceno in the Italian region Marche near the Adriatic Sea. A daughter commissioned this piece for her mom to commemorate their trip to the village where their grandfather was born. Such a special story! If you're thinking of a special commission, email amcoolick@gmail.com for details!

Merry Giveaway!

Hi friends! I'm celebrating reaching 1K Instagram followers and want to toast to all of you who have supported and encouraged me along the way! I'm giving away two prints of your choice from my $50 shop to arrive by Christmas: one for you and one to gift to a friend.
To enter simply:
1. Head over to instagram and follow me @amcoolick
2. Like my "Merry Giveaway" post
3. Tag a friend (up to three for extra entries)
Winner will be announced tomorrow night! Ready, set, go!!