Collection: COLLEEN WALSH

Colleen Walsh is a visual artist whose work focuses on the extraordinary moments in ordinary life.

Sculpture is an endeavor in alignment with Walsh’s background, though having a home ceramics studio is a fortuitous and unseen turn of events. A dear relative passed a kiln and a heap of other ceramics materials on to Colleen, to share with her friends and her family, which she has done in small group classes. Using the slip-molds had in the available inheritance she sought to explore themes of balance/ chaos she experienced as a mother of young children during their Covid quarantine experience. The arm sculptures were developed as a practical approach to continuing her art practice, despite the many and ceaseless expectations and demands, exerted by others and herself.

Colleen Walsh (b.1982) is a fine artist thriving where Chicago ends, on the Southside. Her paintings are mixed media, ranging from spray paint to oils. Her work weaves figures into abstracts, that vibrate with saturated pinks, blues, and neon colors (among others). These colors serve as a beacon of joy amidst winter months, temper tantrums, and the volatile politics of our time. A constant inspiration for her work is extended family, friends, and dogs (who all live in close proximity). Walsh’s work revolves around the themes of relationships, family dynamics, and beauty in mundanity. Her studio, in the basement of her single-family home, is a haven where she works away from her full-time parenting job. Her dogs keep her feet warm and her work intends to highlight the sunny side of life.