Anne Devine is a former teacher turned realtor who has found a passion in painting in her semi-retirement years. Recently, she was tasked to create mini art for display in the Patchogue Arts Council’s latest miniature gallery installment to be presented this month.
“MiniMoCA,” a 1:6 miniature gallery of the Museum of Contemporary Art in Patchogue, officially opened in a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Saturday, July 17. The artwork in the mini gallery is a mix of pieces, both on loan and donated.
Born in the Philippines, Devine graduated from Ateneo de Manila University and emigrated to the U.S. in 1988. She has three adult children, two of which work in artistic fields. John, her husband of nearly 30 years, is supportive of her work and encourages her to expand her subject matter.
Devine, who recently found a love for art, creates all of her works after 8:30 p.m., a time of absolute peace for her.
“I just really enjoy it. I guess it takes my mind off things, with full concentration,” she said.
She began creating for family and friends after purchasing an easel paint set on sale. Though she never painted before, the sale was at a price she couldn’t refuse. After a few weeks of looking at the unopened package, she decided to give it a try. She admitted she was scared, not of ruining the canvas, but rather “to find out I have no talent.”
Her first painting was of cherry blossoms. Proud of her work but unsure of how people would receive it, she was happy when her son (who doesn’t like anything, according to Devine) asked to keep it. Then, soon enough, Devine was creating one piece after another, and family and friends began to expect a painting for every occasion.
After being invited to create a few pieces for “MiniMoCA,” Devine continued an entire line of about 30 mini pieces, mostly featuring animals.
“It’s ironic because I don’t have any pets,” she said laughing.
All of her pieces are bright in color and a little out of the ordinary. She likes to think of herself as emulating a mixture of Vincent van Gogh and Robin Williams. Her artwork combines elements of the whimsical, bizarre, and heartfelt.
All of her canvases are signed, “Sebastiana.” Follow her on Instagram @sebastiana_art
Comments
No comments on this item Please log in to comment by clicking here