New in the Gallery From John Bannon

On your next visit to one of our galleries you may notice a few new pieces on the walls! John Bannon’s artwork has been on display with us for many years and we have recently obtained a variety of new works.

About the Artist:
Bannon began his art education with the Maryland Institute of Art at age eight. He later graduated from the Institute with a BFA degree and went on to get his MFA in the History and Practice of Painting from the University of Pennsylvania. Bannon spent 50 years both exhibiting and teaching here in the US and around the world. He called Virginia home for many years until his passing in 2017. His artistic legacy is maintained by his son.

The Works:
Bannon created a wide range of works from figure studies, portraiture, and still life. However, he is most well known for his landscapes. Mostly working in oil on panel or canvas, Bannon captured scenes from around Virginia and Washington DC. Morning Mist, Great Falls perfectly shows Bannon’s atmospheric painting style with soft blending and naturalistic colors. The calmness of the trees and rocky shore moves your eye through the painting and directly towards the small rapids in the foreground.

John Bannon Morning Mist, Great Falls 12x16 Oil on Canvas

Not limited to the natural beauty of his surroundings, Bannon treated his cityscapes with the same care. The softly rendered spires of the National Cathedral reach into a pale, cloudy sky. The contrast in this piece comes both from the warm autumn foliage in the foreground as well as the play between their organic shapes and the gothic architecture of the building.

John Bannon National Cathedral 12x12 Oil on Canvas

Bannon’s work is now on display at both our Great Falls and Alexandria locations. Drop by the galleries to get a closer look!