I owe so much to the Umbrella Arts Center in Concord, Massachusetts, for the opportunities they’ve provided to me and countless other artists, giving us a chance to pursue art instruction from an incredibly gifted group of instructors whose work inspires us every day.

I’ve studied under Kat O’Connor on and off since 2017, when I took my first watercolor class at the Umbrella thinking it might help me help Walt expand his art to include painting. It turned out that I was the one who expanded my art horizon under Kat’s steady guidance. Kat has mentored a devoted group of artists whose affiliation with her is measured not just in years, but decades, and I am honored to be among them and learn from them.

Each summer Umbrella Arts offer students a chance to share classwork completed during the past year, and I decided to submit my piece, “May Altar,” which is part of a series of paintings I did that were inspired by Mary and the Rosary. You can see the whole Moment of Reflection show in person through August 30, 2026, or take a virtual tour

Other pieces in that series include:

I don’t think I’m finished with this subject matter.

The Umbrella Arts Center is at 40 Stow Street in Concord, Massachusetts. It’s right in the heart of Concord (near the Library) and there is lots to do and see nearby.