For some, it is the anticipation of the struggle that keeps our efforts at bay. The ending precludes the beginning. For others, an innate talent coupled with tireless methodical training, bears fruit.The fruit is susceptible to cold bleak criticism as well as hot, sweltering verbosity. Regardless, the fruit remains the fruit.

  
  Sherrie McGraw is alive. The clarity of her work reflects more years than are humanly possible. A merger of past techniques and present accomplishments are embodied in this vessel of creativity. Elements of Rembrandt, Pushman and Velazquez exist in the pure Northern light which permeates each of McGraws oil paintings. Minimal lines form complete concepts in her charcoal and conte drawings. Influenced by their wisdom but not constrained, she speaks their language with new insights about the modern world.

  
  Discipline, often considered by society as a necessary evil, enveloped Sherrie at a young age as she attended parochial schools. "From my earliest memories, I knew I would be an artist, but all my choices were made silently. As a child, this desire was part of a quiet internal life I led, but it was always there. Drawing in every spare moment, I'd lock myself in my room and sit in front of a statue or an Old Italian Master drawing and meticulously copy for hours."

  
  Later, McGraw's Oklahoma college education rewarded her artistic efforts with high grades. However, she felt her knowledge of drawing was incomplete. She sought private instruction and discovered that her suspicions were confirmed. Obsessive emphasis was placed on technique. A rigid rhythm of commands accompanied each aspect of painting. These laborious exercises, much like a child's task of repeatedly writing I'm sorry, excluded the possibility of visual appreciation and resulted in an empty experience.

  
  Perseverance led Sherrie to major museums where the re-discovery of beauty awakened her deepest thoughts. At this point, she was persuaded by a fellow artist to pursue her studies at the prestigious Art Students League in New York where she returned to teach in subsequent years. Today, collectors, private mentors and students in art schools across the country speak reverently about her accomplished paintings and art of teaching. Patiently, she uncovers at least one working attribute, creating and stimulating the opportunity to evolve. Through her painting and teaching, she is perpetually enrolled in her own school of discovery, inspiring others through example.

  
 

Nestled in the mountains of Northern New Mexico, McGraw enjoys the freedom and solitude of her historical studio. There, pure light and thought unite on canvas. Inspired by inner vision and comprehension, her next work unfolds, creating new struggles and growth.

by Elise Waters Olonia

  
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