Cambridge Art Association

“Cape Elizabeth Seascape I”, Oil On Paper, 5” x 7” (2022)

Super thrilled to be selected into the Cambridge Art Association’s 2023 National Prize Show, juried by Robin Cembalest!

My lifelong affinity and admiration for the ocean is depicted in my oil works on paper.  

Having spent all of my life living in coastal towns along New England, it comes naturally to be able to express the movement and mood of the waters in the Northeast.

I paint quickly and intuitively as I mix and add thin layers of oil, actually using only the tip of my fingers to bring the seascape to life. 

This scene is from memories of looking down at the ocean from the magnificent rocky coastline of Cape Elizabeth in Maine.  

Although it may not be an exact portrayal of reality, it is as I recall the experience.

Varying hues of blues, whites, creams and pale pinks are used to express my interpretation of the water and the varying light qualities in the sky.

My hope is that the work invokes a familiarity of senses for being near the water's edge for the viewer.

~ Amalia Tagaris

More information on the juror from the CAA site:

“JUROR: ROBIN CEMBALEST

Respected journalist, popular Instagrammer, and the former longtime editor of ARTnews, Robin Cembalest trains arts professionals to communicate effectively across all editorial channels.

Over 16 years at the helm of ARTnews, she shepherded the century-old magazine into the digital era, expanding its content and training generations of interns, writers, and editors.

In 2014, she launched her business Robin Cembalest Editorial Strategies, helping art-world clients to design and implement mission-based content. She teaches professional development workshops in writing, social media, and other essential skills at art schools, residencies, museums, professional organizations, and independently on Eventbrite.

An award-winning writer who has published widely in the art and mainstream press”