Sherry McAdams is a North Carolina contemporary painter whose work has roots in the abstract expressionist tradition, yet embraces a style that is uniquely her own. Shapes and line appear to morph in and out of focus, and subtle imagery whispers beneath the surface. Sherry’s art combines energetic brushwork along with a mysterious layering of color and texture to create a variety of soft and hard passages to capture the viewer’s attention.

Sherry attended East Carolina University and earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. She has been employed as a graphic designer for over 20 years and still finds time for her love of painting. Always influenced by strong color and design, her work continues to gain favor with clients for commercial as well as residential use. You will find her work in public and private collections across the US. Represented by Tyler White O’Brien Gallery/Greensboro, NC; Lucky Fish Gallery/ Madison, NC; The Very Thing, Ltd/Burlington, NC; Vita Vite/Raleigh, NC.

She was the 2013 National winner of The Artists Series Wine Label Program sponsored by The Capital Grille restaurant and Darden Inc. The abstract painting selected for the wine label went on a tour across the United States to be auctioned for the charity Share Our Strength. The painting was purchased by Janie Hendrix (sister of the late Jimi Hendrix).
She is currently living in Elon, North Carolina, with husband Jeff.

Artist Statement:

Painting offers me the practical and metaphorical reminder that there are always opportunities to move forward and change. Working primarily with acrylics, there is no such thing as a “mistake.” I add another layer, another texture, and the painting gradually emerges.

Using acrylic paint I will often have 10 or more layers of media with the more subterranean layers peeking through to add depth and texture. I enjoy the interplay of complements and the use of grayed colors against bright.

I jump in with both feet and have been called fearless by my contemporaries because of a tendency to paint fast and with great enthusiasm. Each painting is a journey, a challenge and a wonder. Painting is my passion!