For our fourth interview of the 2021 Delaware Fun-A-Day, we talk to artist and avid cyclist Sean McGonegal about his flower still life drawings, the Urban Bike Project, and coffee shops. Thanks, Sean!
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We like to know how people are connected to Delaware - are you a resident, born and raised? What opportunities have you found here?
I was born and raised in Bellefonte and am a lifelong Delawarean. I’ve found many opportunities here - work, recreation, creative outlets. Delaware packs a lot in a little space. I’m currently working as Program Coordinator for Urban Bike Project, a non-profit community bike shop where I enjoy supporting the Wilmington cycling community.
This is going to be your FIFTH year participating! Can you describe your favorite past Fun-A-Day project?
The first was probably my favorite. I had recently started drawing again after a long break and I was really energized by the challenge of completing something each day.
Your first Delaware Fun a Day Exhibit was known as “Flower Still Life” and was the project that kicked off this amazing five year streak of consecutive exhibits you’ve participated in. When recalling your first exhibit, what was it that made you excited to try out this event and what continued to bring you back annually?
I was initially intrigued by the idea of drawing daily as a way to improve my drawing skill. After enjoying the experience so thoroughly, I was definitely looking forward to doing it again. The biggest challenge for me is finding the time each day, but I find it very rewarding.
Please describe your 2021 project "Get Your Greens".
Since the coffee shop where I’ve found my drawing subjects in the past is now take out only, I’m going outside when I can to find plants and flowers for my drawings.
As a well-seasoned Delaware Fun-A-Day participant, what advice can you give our newcomers? Is there any piece of advice that you believe would be a top priority for rookies to take a hold of?
Remember that it’s for fun!
We see from your Instagram account that you also have an abiding interest in bicycles and cycling. This must afford you many opportunities to meet other people and be in nature. How has this interest worked as an inspirational tool in your artwork? Can you describe some of your favorite memories from the past year?
Cycling certainly does get me out and about. My work with Urban Bike Project has introduced me to many new people and deepened my connection to the community. 2020 was an incredible year for UBP. Our Free Bike and Compensated Usage programs helped a record number of Delawareans in need of reliable, affordable transportation and continues to help those riders keep their bikes safe and functional. We provided affordable bike repairs when local shops were overwhelmed by demand and hamstrung by new parts shortages. We also saw a 300% increase in sales of refurbished bikes to fund our programs. Being able to work through the pandemic and provide support for so many residents of the city I call home is by far my favorite memory of 2020.
DEFAD 2021 will be the first time the exhibit will be fully displayed virtually. As an artist participating in the event this year, what do you have to change when it comes to creating your exhibit (art style, delivery, medium, emotions, etc.)
I haven’t really had to change much, other than going out to find my subjects.
Your 2020 Delaware Fun a Day project was titled “Coffee Shop Sketches”. As a fun question, can you tell us what your overall favorite coffee and coffee shop is and how these elements fused together to inspire last year’s project?
I’m an espresso devotee, and BrewHaHa in Trolley Square has been my go to cafe since I moved into the city. They had lovely flower decorations and fresh flower arrangements that were frequently changing so there was always something new to draw. The atmosphere there was perfect for relaxing and creating.
Where can people see more of your work?
I’ve posted some work on my Instagram account, @mcgone while participating in other drawing challenges.