CYNTHIA COOPER was raised in Newbury, where she acquired her lifelong love of art and the outdoors. Though primarily self-taught, she studied with Sam Sargent, Joyce Pigeon and Audrey Bechler. She began painting in oils as a teenager, but has since found acrylic and watercolor more compatible with her style.
“Being an artist is what makes me happy. I appreciate both the natural and man-made settings around me. I can get inspiration to paint from a single flower to a wonderful piece of architecture. My paintings take on a life of their own. When I begin, I usually don’t know where it will lead. I just try to paint with emotion and hope it comes out successfully. My style, described as impressionistic by some, has evolved over the years from very controlled to more expressive. I hope that my paintings will trigger a pleasant memory for the viewer, calming their spirit.”
Currently, she is a member of the Newburyport Ten plein air painters, Haverhill and Newburyport Art Associations, was a past president of the Newburyport association, and formerly belonged to the Copley Society of Boston and Marblehead Art Association. During her 30 year career as a painter, she has had numerous one-person shows and awards. Her paintings can be found in collections throughout the area.
Her studio is at her home in Newburyport.