Colleen Cassidy                                                              

Colleen Cassidy was born in East Islip, Long Island.  There she studied art at the primary and secondary levels before moving to Sarasota in 1977 to continue her studies at the Ringling College of Art and Design.  She received a degree in fine art in 1981.

Since that time, Colleen has honed her craft, specializing in watercolor and signature painted furniture.  She also began teaching her unique artistic outlook to students at various schools in the area.  

Using many different mediums, such as watercolor, acrylics, ink and pastels. Colleen feels working on a single medium is restrictive to her artistic process. Each idea manifests in its own individual style. Because of teaching she is always experimenting with new techniques. She strives to develop comprehensive insights into watercolor painting so that, regardless of a students specific interest, she can provide instruction which they find helpful.

In 1995, Colleen opened her own art school in Sarasota, where she taught children and adults of all ages and skill levels.  In 1997 she purchased and renovated a 1905 Victorian House and property at 4613 South Tamiami Trail.  She was able to historical register the property as the Bispham-Wilson Historic District.  She opened her new art & photography school, gift and framing gallery in the unique and colorful Victorian house in 1999. Still teaching watercolor painting and acrylic painted furniture. Added artists to teach oils, mosaics, photography, pottery, pastels, jewelry and other crafts. Along with a gallery and custom frame shop. Have also done workshops in Hawaii. In 2014 she moved her gallery downtown and is now teaching in various places

Her award-winning works have been exhibited at the Florida Watercolor Society, Florida Sarasota Orchestra Designer Showcase, American Society of Interior Designer Showcase, Art Center of Sarasota, Arts Day, Art Center of Sarasota, Longboat Key Center and many juried art events.  She is a Ringling Art School alumni artist at the Made By Gallery, as well as various art and gift galleries locally and nationally.

Was awarded the Most Creative Booth at the American Society of Interior Designers Resource Show.  Her pet portrait artwork was featured in the Family Circle Magazine. She was selected three years for being a top Florida Artist by the Florida International magazine. She has been a featured artist in the Sarasota Herald and other local publications. She was also featured in the “Made in Sarasota” section of the Sarasota Magazine.   Colleen has supported many popular charity events.  She has won many awards for her outstanding watercolor paintings and signature painted furniture. Has been an art judge for local shows.

Artist Inspiration:

I create art because it comes naturally to me.  Art has always been a big part of my life, even before I based my career on it. When I paint, I am at peace with myself and my surroundings.

The subjects I choose vary.  I look for things that are pleasing to the eye. I enjoy painting florals, animals and contemporary abstract. I feel exploration in this regard is important for my growth as an artist. I want viewers to feel good when they look at my artwork. I particularly love to use vibrant colors. I find that highly coloristic works promote happiness.