Working with watercolor and mixed media is filled with unexpected surprises. The Synergy Series explores new ways of working with the lyrical flow and translucent qualities of watercolor. Japanese paper is torn, layered and folded. Foil surrounds the paper and is crushed to create intersecting lines, depth and dense texture. Radiant watercolor flows from one piece to the next, producing a kind of color wheel effect. The result:     richly textured, three dimensional watercolor works of art.

The Mystery of Masa paintings evolved from the Synergy Series and are painted in colors and combinations that push beyond the limits of the paper. The intensity of color and texture is bolder and the size and complexity of the pieces has increased.

The work expresses light, energy, emotion, playfulness, and inner reflection—a celebration and rediscovery of the transformative power of art.

Synergy 1 was selected for “The Best of Watercolor”, Splash 11: New Directions, published by North Light Books in 2010.

Synergy 2 and Synergy 4 won award recognition in exhibitions.

Carol Jones McDonnell’s paintings have been featured in solo and group exhibitions in galleries and cultural centers, including the Marblehead Arts Association, Marblehead, Massachusetts; the Marblehead Festival of Arts, Marblehead, Massachusetts; Gallant Gallery in Boston, Massachusetts; Art 3 Gallery in Manchester, New Hampshire; Expressions Gallery in Milford, New Hampshire; and the New Hampshire Institute of Art.

McDonnell received a B.F.A. from the New Hampshire Institute of Art. Her work was selected for the publication series “The Best of Watercolor”, Splash 11: New Directions, North Light Books, 2010 and has received award recognition in exhibitions.