2012 Cape Ann Guide – Experience Cape Ann…serving Essex, Gloucester, Manchester-by-the-Sea and Rockport. Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce.
Issue link: http://capeannguide.epubxp.com/i/68289
Arts & Culture An Artistic Union HUSBAND AND WIFE, DONALD AND CHRISTINE MOSHER When you step inside the Mosher Gallery, you'll soon notice two distinctive styles of art from husband and wife, Donald and Christine Mosher. On one wall you'll see Donald's oil paintings of New England landscapes and marine scenes. Donald's style is reminiscent of early Cape Ann painters such as Theime, Gruppe, and Mulhaupt, artists who developed an offshoot of American Impressionism. "I usually paint 'en plein air' which means I paint outside," said Donald. "On Cape Ann there is an abundance of natural beauty by the sea, in the woods, and simply in our neighbor- hoods. I never run out of subject matter." Looking at one painting, Good Harbor Beach, the viewer feels as though they've just crested a rocky hill and discov- ered this grand beach for the first time. The sound of children playing in the gentle waves is almost audible, and the scene invites you to explore the creek that leads to the sea. The viewer can also enjoy the depth of view ranging from the grassy hillside clear to the twin lighthouses on Thacher Island. Nearby Donald's paintings are the paintings of Donald's good friend and Celtics basketball great, Tommy Heinsohn. Donald and Tommy met in the Mosher Gallery years ago, and now they travel with other local artists to paint New England scenes. "People are often surprised that a basketball star has artistic abilities and interests," said Donald. "He offers wonderful oil paintings and watercolors. Our gallery offers a variety of styles and subject matter including, of course, the wonderful work of my wife Christine." CHRISTINE MOSHER Displayed on the opposite wall of the Mosher Gallery, Christine's work reflects a unique mix of realism, still life, and romantic figures. One of Christine's paintings mesmerizes the viewer with its portrayal of what appears to be a mermaid's face enhanced with flowing dark hair, faraway eyes, and a pearl necklace featuring a seahorse centerpiece. Her hair is adorned with tiny starfish, adding to the sea-influenced theme. Another of Christine's paintings features a woman standing by the sea wearing a transparent shawl, as an ocean breeze moves her skirt. The turbulent clouds and ocean blend behind the woman, and the wind drapes the woman in the same turbulence. "Christine's inspiration generally comes from her own thoughts, her imagination—whereas my paintings are www.capeannchamber.com | www.capeannvacations.com | www.rockportusa.com 47 normally inspired externally, but what my eyes see," said Donald Mosher. We help each other by critiquing one another's art and showing support. It's a partnership, not a competition." In contrast to her husband, Christine normally paints at their in-home studio, and also frequently designs her own frames. She often travels with her husband on art related trips throughout New England, across America and in Europe. Christine and Donald met in 1968 at the Vesper George School of Art in Boston. Both have won hundreds of awards and have been featured in Yankee Magazine and other publications. "Because my wife and I share this studio, art lovers can easily enjoy our distinct styles," said Donald Mosher. "A partnership like this is a joy, and in fact, we just celebrated our 43rd wedding anniversary." The Mosher Gallery offers original paintings as well as Giclée prints. When you stop by, be sure to ask Donald or Christine about Rockport's art events. Donald is the current president of the Rockport Art Association and Christine has served on the board for 15 years. For more information, visit the gallery at 13 Main Street, Rockport, or online at www.moshergallery.com, phone 978-546-3666.