Guest Artist in the Studio/Gallery: John A. Neff, Signature Member of American Watercolor Society

"Men Talking by Boat" John A. Neff, AWS, watercolors, 9.75 x 13. 75" framed, available $2300

As part of our mission to increase the awareness of local artists and artwork, we are honored to host an exhibit and sale of the works of John A. Neff (1926-2017) a Signature member of the American Watercolor Society, a member of the Allied Artists of America, the American Society of Marine Artists and the Whiskey Painters of America.

Boat, John A. Neff, AWS, watercolor 13.5 x 16.5" framed, $1700

Canadian Geese, John A. Neff, AWS, watercolor 8 x 16", framed, $2600

John A. Neff

A Connecticut artist, John was educated at the Whitney School of Art as well as the Paier College of Art in Hamden, Connecticut, and spent over 20 years in the commercial field after his WWII service. Over the span of his career he became increasingly involved in watercolor exhibiting and has been the recipient of 150 awards including the Ogden & Mary Pleissner Award from the American Watercolor Society in New York City, the Strathmore Paper Award from the New England Watercolor Society in Boston, Massachusetts, and the E. Irving Bloomstrann Award from the New Britain Museum of American Art in Connecticut. His works are currently in over a dozen private and corporate permanent collections in the United States, ranging from museums to universities to public libraries. He also has a collection at the American Consulate of Hong Kong.

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House with Horse and Buggy, John A. Neff, AWS, watercolor, 10 x 14", framed, $2650

 Although I never had the chance to meet Mr. Neff in person, his nephew is a  life-long friend of my husband Dean. When we were approached with the idea of showcasing  Mr. Neff's beautiful, award winning work, it was an easy decision for us. Keen to embrace our Connecticut art culture, past and present we are honored to make available the works of a prestigious  CT artist  for those who are interested in adding to their art collection or treasure a piece of Connecticut history. Admired by his peers, ​Mr. Neff sold many works throughout the years to both CT artists and residents. In memory of his legacy and an offer of gratitude, several original works have been donated to local  organizations that Mr. Neff was associated with. 

Pemaquid Light, John A. Neff, AWS, Whiskey Painters of American, watercolor, 4.75 x 5.25, framed, $600

Currently in the Gallery are 14 original works by John A. Neff. Ranging from the small 3" x 5" Whiskey Paintings to larger works on paper such as the well known Goodspeed Opera House of East Haddam, CT an iconic landmark along the CT River.

Mr. Neff's work has the accuracy of fine draftsmanship with the element of a narrative to be found in each scene. His depiction of an era past with horse and buggy, women in long petticoats or gentlemen with top hats offer the viewer a glimpse into our New England heritage. Neff's professional illustration background is clearly woven into the design and composition of each piece as they so easily capture the viewer's attention through dynamic play of light and shadows, fine details and soft gradations. A master with brush and the so unpredictable medium of watercolor, I find myself standing in front of each piece on the gallery wall studying, learning and absorbing the work of an accomplished artist. It's no wonder Mr. Neff merited over 150 awards for his stunning watercolor paintings. 
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The gallery is located at 183 Montowese Street Branford, CT, near the Branford Green. Gallery hours are Thursday 10am-6pm, Friday 10am-5pm and Saturday 10am-4pm, and by appointment. For further information, please call  Linda at 203-444-5705 email us at Linda@LindaSMarinoart.com and visit www.LindaSMarinoArt.com  to see John A. Neff’s works on display and for sale.

Goodspeed, John A. Neff, AWS, watercolor, 13 x 17" framed, $4000