Monica Gannon, Monica Gannon Art
Fuquay Varina, NC
My paintings explore both the fragility and resilience of the human spirit. Though there are many ways that people search for meaning in their lives, the fact is that we are all searching for something. The physical journey I’ve had traveling and living in many states and countries has mirrored my spiritual journey to understand myself. I have always found myself thinking in pictures rather than in a spoken language, and it’s easier for me to express myself with a paintbrush than with written words.
During the pandemic I often found myself wondering what people were doing behind all those closed doors. We were all forced to explore new ways to spend our time and had an opportunity to look inside ourselves more deeply. As a self-appointed seeker of silver-linings, I found the changes and growth that many experienced to be very meaningful and emotional. After over 30 years as a graphic designer, muralist, and painter, I turned my attention wholly toward art that focuses on representing the human spirit. It’s easy to see the differences in people, but we are all similar in that we each seek to find and express our true selves. I’m fascinated by the activities people use to find enlightenment, enjoyment, and inner peace. In these paintings, I use swirling worlds of texture with vibrant, jewel-toned hues to punch through the dark moody interior spaces. Hopefully, you will see yourself or one of your loved ones expressed in one of my paintings or at least have a better understanding of the people around you. My paintings aim to reflect the human spirit in each of us through the activities in our daily life.