Painter and Photographer

Greetings! I am Colleen Hennessy, born and raised here in Denver. My mediums include paint, photography, and clay. I am energized by travel, studying languages, and being outdoors.

What made you want to join Art Gym? I was fortunate enough to receive an Eric L. Porter Scholarship and my 6-month painting opportunity really helped me to slow down and focus on what I wanted to accomplish. As the winter approaches, I look forward to continuing my work in oils and other mediums. Art Gym continues to give me a sense of community and direction.

How has Art Gym helped with your art practice? Art Gym has provided me with a quiet place to work without distractions. The staff and members are generous with feedback and the monthly critiques are insightful. Art Gym is a place of experimentation, growth, and exploration.

What are you hoping to communicate through your work?  I want my work to communicate beauty, trigger memories, and convey emotion. I paint in order to explore personal questions and to examine the life I have lived. The paintbrush and the camera are both tools for doing this.

Who and/or what are some of your biggest artistic influences? Henri Cartier-Bresson, Edward Weston, Van Gogh, Picasso, and Paul Klee.

What does your artwork mean to you?  Art is a way to focus my energy. Art represents my feelings about the world and things I have learned. For me, painting is a huge challenge, and the struggle will hopefully become an asset. I am driven by a passion for my art and a desire to express myself creatively.