JO McGINNIS

A native of Ohio, Jo McGinnis relocated to Connecticut to pursue a career  as an

Art Educator. With an undergraduate degree from Miami University of Ohio, Jo

completed her Master’s degree at Kent State University where she presented her

first one woman show, featuring works in fiber.  Using quilt, trapunto and reverse

appliqué techniques as well as embroidered and beaded surface enrichment, Jo

created soft sculpture and dimensional wall hangings based on underwater

plant and fish forms.

As an Art Educator of nearly four decades, Jo has loved sharing the joys of creating

with thousands of students and has been honored several times for her innovation

in and dedication to children’s art education.  She was selected as the Connecticut Art Education Association’s Elementary Art Teacher of the Year in 2006.

With an ongoing interest in nature, Jo has explored a variety of media to present her ideas through out her career.  Using paper collage, ceramics, printmaking and soft pastels, she has created interpretations of various aspects of the natural world.  Her most recent work in soft pastel presents the viewer with an intimate look at many of the smaller elements of the shore, woodland and garden.  Using vibrant color and exacting detail, she focuses the viewer’s eye on these small "gems" that are so often overlooked.

Jo and her husband have recently relocated to Sarasota, FL where she is enthusiastically exploring and painting the natural beauty of the coastline and Gulf.  She maintains a studio in her home and her award winning work has been displayed in regional, national and international exhibits.