We had the good fortune of connecting with Patricia Cummins and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Patricia, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
From an early age I always wanted to make art. In kindergarten I can remember painting and how positive it made me feel. It was an early decision to pursue a career in visual arts.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My paintings are mostly created “en plein air”. They are a result of over 20 residencies, both national and international. I have served 15 National Park residencies, at some of the most breathtaking locations across the United States. I’ve painted in the desert snow, at mountain tops, valleys and the water’s edge. Spending so many hours painting outdoors has helped me both physically and mentally. It’s so easy to forget about time and troubles while painting. It’s been a great experience, but has taken perseverance. Applications were sometimes completed several times before acceptance to a residency program. Working at it for so many years has taught me patience and to never give up.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
A trip to Fairchild Garden would be on the list for sure! A drive to the Keys, stopping or camping at Bahia Honda. A day in Key West, then a ferry ride to Dry Tortuga National Park. If they liked camping , perhaps 2 nights there. The west coast of Florida has beaches I absolutely love. Two days on Manasota Key, stopping to check out Shark Valley and Big Cypress National Preserve along the way.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Robert Barrell, director of the Forest Park School of Art in New York City was an inspiration to me as an artist. It was at his school that I assisted him with a young adult class, teaching art on the weekends while I was in high school. I admired his art and his dedication to his painting.

Website: patcummins.com

Instagram: nationalparkpainter

Facebook: Patricia Rottino Cummins Oil and Pastel Painter

Image Credits
Donna Napolitano

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