Patsy Surh O’Connell is a watercolorist influenced by both traditional Asian techniques, such as Chinese ink painting and Japanese Sumi-e, as well as contemporary painting styles and subject matter. One often sees a fusion of these in her work.
Born in Shanghai, China to Korean parents, she spent her childhood and teenage years there, as well as in Seoul, Korea. In 1963, she immigrated to the United States, and received a degree in Interior Design in San Francisco. Over the next 40 years, she continued to study Chinese ink painting and transparent watercolor, studying with a variety of teachers in Japan, Okinawa and the United States. Eventually, she settled in Gig Harbor, Washington in 1985.
Patsy has had a long and diverse career as an artist, teacher, businesswoman and active liaison between Asian cultures and the larger community of the Puget Sound region. Her work in cultural community outreach has been especially recognized. She has served on numerous boards, juries, panels and committees for arts, educational and community organizations and projects in Tacoma, Pierce County and Washington State.
In 2006, Patsy achieved signature membership in the Northwest Watercolor Society.