For over a century, our region has been home to extraordinary artists. Local Arts Index highlights the work of individuals who continue our community’s rich creative legacy.
Meet watercolorist Cass McVety.
How Did You Become an Artist?
I was born during the “Big Snow” of 1948, in Flushing, NY, the youngest of 4 into a musical, creative family. I spent my childhood in the city and at the beach. Congers is my home now.
My mother was a pianist and my closest sister, an artist. As a young girl, I followed my sister around and emulated all that she did from art to music, and now I’m also trying to teach myself how to play the piano. One of my three kids has creative talent through woodwork and music. I believe we all are creative – it just has to be tapped.
My earliest memory as a young child was successfully drawing a swan – it turned out well and I guess that experience kept me at it. My favorite class in high school was art and I studied Art History at New York University.
What Kind of Art do you Make?
I’m a self-taught watercolorist. After breaking loose from the corporate world, I have a constant craving to improve my art. In the future, I hope to devote more time to the piano.
While suffering through restrictive, uncreative jobs, I would grab any chance to create. Working with “special” populations over the years has added a humanitarian touch to much of my work. Lack of time and money does not stop me.
Watercolor painting is challenging to do and teach. The process requires thought and planning in advance. Still seeking confidence in this medium, I look forward to working in abstraction.
I’ve also spent time with sculpture, pottery, macramé, and all manner of things artsy! ~ Art is long, life is short ~
What’s Your Muse?
I am inspired greatly by nature with a special fondness for flowers of all kinds, especially wild ones. Mother Nature is the greatest artist.
What is paramount to me is living in the now and being grateful. Meditating brings me inspiration, instilling a deep sense of both awareness and love which helps me see that everything and everyone is beautiful! I’m grateful to be part of our colorful universe. I am also happy to have a new small sketch/watercolor pad system for serendipitous art making.
What’s Next?
As a member of the newly formed Nyack Art Collective, I exhibit every month as part of the collective’s First Friday celebration.
My work will be displayed at The Little Flower Shop at 95 -1/2 Main St and at Casa Del Sol at 104 Main St. starting on Friday January 3, and showing throughout the month. You can also view member artwork on the Nyack Art Collective facebook page.
I serve as the President of the Hudson Valley Chapter of the Fellowship of Reconciliation at Shadowcliff in Upper Nyack. Some of my watercolors can be seen on the Hudson Valley FOR facebook page.
Local Arts Index is sponsored by Maria Luisa, 77 South Broadway and ML by Maria Luisa, 75 South Broadway, Nyack, NY