The Cornerstone Coffeehouse welcomes local artist Joe O’Donnell, acrylic painter, whose art will be on display for the month of June.

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Tell us briefly about your background & how you got started in your medium.
I was adopted when very young, and my mother was artistically creative and poetic; she encouraged me to draw every day. Though she died of cancer when I was only 10, I still feel the memory of her enthusiasm.

How does your medium inform your viewpoint? Or what do you like most about your medium?
It dries quickly and has excellent hue intensity and retention.

Who or what have been your artistic inspirations?
Jean Francois Millet and French Impressionism.

Do you have a favorite piece in your portfolio?
My first (and only) portraits…that of my wife and daughter.

What would be your advice for artists just starting out in your medium?
Try everything and fear nothing — especially the blank canvas. Always play music that puts you in a creative spirit. Plan your composition before you paint. Embrace your authenticity and be real! Also, the Internet has some wonderful painting instruction videos for all levels of artists to use either to further their knowledge and interest in new techniques or to master their present style.