James A. McConnell

“Serenity, tranquility and modesty are the sensations one feels when viewing a watercolor painting by Jim McConnell.” This was how one critic described his work.

Growing up in Canonsburg, Pennsylvania, he discovered his passion for art at a very young age through soap carvings and sketches. After high school, he joined the Army Air Corp and served until 1945. During this time, he met his future wife, Lona, and returned with her to his home town. His love of art took him to the Art Institute of Pittsburgh, which led to a design job with the Duquesne Light Company. A full time job and active family life kept him very busy until retirement. After 38 years, retiring permitted him to spend more time doing what he loved most – painting.

After years of working with acrylic, he began concentrating on watercolor, and developed his own style and technique of watercolor painting at the age of 64. He quickly became a well-respected and renowned artist, often requested to instruct classes, conduct workshops and give demonstrations on his approach to painting. Art galleries from Pittsburgh to Wheeling, WV requested his art be hung on their walls. His landscapes and florals expressed his imagination and individualism as an artist, but it was his “architectural portraits” which kept him in great demand, especially among businessmen and professionals. His paintings of buildings, ranging from historical city structures to rural barns, brought praise for accuracy and style. As the market for his artwork increased, homeowners consistently commissioned him to paint their homes. His art continued to develop in demand and presence throughout his final years.

Jim continued painting until his health began to decline at the age of 86. He left this earth three years later, in 2010, but lives on through each piece of work he produced.

If you have a “McConnell” hanging in your home or office, you own a valued masterpiece. Just ask someone who does.