#Hashtag | Aug. 2023
#HASHTAG: PATRICIA MARKOS DOLAN
By Julia Paulman
ILLUSTRATION BY TOM BACHTELL
Winnetka artist PATRICIA MARKOS DOLAN has been sharing her artistic excellence for more than a decade. This Greek-American painter thrives while creating authentic oil on canvas pieces that pulse with the rhythm of life. Each work reflects Dolan’s lifelong visits to the Aegean coast, relaying the sea’s compelling colors and the country’s culture. Dolan’s work has been part of group and solo exhibitions and can be found in well-respected private and corporate collections across the country—from New York to Palm Beach, Chicago to Washington, D.C., and as far afield as Greece and France. Each canvas reminds viewers of a Mark Rothko meets Monet work, delivering a message that is subtle yet strong to the eye. Dolan’s Pelagos collection will be on view throughout September at Winnetka’s Vivid Gallery. The opening reception will be held on September 8 and the show runs until September 30. Stop by to see the works in person and feel transported to the sea. Dolan puts down her paintbrush to share how she stays current in an art-filled world. For more information, visit patriciamdolan.com, and join Dolan in a journey towards the Aegean.
#ON MY NIGHTSTAND
Time is precious so I am either in my studio, spending time with my family and friends, or listening to an inspirational podcast. I enjoy Magic Lessons by Elizabeth Gilbert which delivers a variety of inspirational perspectives through individual experiences, and Eckhart Tolle’s Essential Teachings. It holds a message that sits with me: “Your entire life only happens in this moment. The present moment is life itself …” I also spend time listening to Medical Medium by Anthony William, a podcast exploring various approaches to healing and healthy living.
#ON MY MOBILE
Meditation is one of my key practices prior to working on a canvas and reflecting on the day. Before bed I find Eckhart Tolle’s Stillness Speaks quiets my mind and allows me to reach a deeper level of consciousness, a perfect transition into meditation. Acres of Diamonds is a classic read by Russell H. Conwell, “abundance is where we are, feel your ground. Put your blinders on.” And of course, a pad of paper and pencil to capture my thoughts.
#IN MY EARBUDS
Music transcends me! I love getting lost in Greek music especially as I push paint on canvas. The emotional inner-rhythmic tension taps into my subconscious to deliver the message in my work. Classical music also allows me to perform in a therapeutic manner with the intention of sound that takes form on canvas.
