Madeline Daversa

Artist Statement

My art is inspired by the beauty and unique characteristics of the East End of LI, from the open space of the farmland to the surrounding waters. Being a ‘long islander’ I have grown a tremendous appreciation for the natural environment that is inherently Long Island. Along with that, I have recognized the people in our community who have a deep connection to Long Island’s natural character. My watercolors highlight the people who shape the East End through their hard work, dedication to the environment and especially a passion for what they do.

It was an adventure boating out to the middle of the Peconic Bay to visit the Peeko Oyster Barge. There was non-stop activity as three fishermen emptied large cages of oysters that were piled high around the barge. The painting is a snapshot, finding the three fishermen together, as they continuously moved around the barge. The figures are posed against the chaos of the harvesting equipment. Oysters are native to the Peconic Bay. Besides being delicious to eat they are very important to the health of our waters by filtering millions of gallons of water. The painting highlights a true Long Island aquaculture and the fishermen who work every day out on Peconic Bay.

I work with watercolor, trying to achieve a level of realism as I find the light and push the shadows. My paintings use the white of the paper as the natural white of the scene. The nature of watercolor allows for an incredible build up of color that changes continuously which can be challenging but always fun to experience.