In Fond Memory of Jennie Tomao: Elegance & Grace for All Time

Misty Landscape - collection of F. & E. Freed

It's with great sadness that we write this blog to tell you of the passing of artist Jennie Tomao earlier this month. Jennie's art career spanned over 50 years and numerous shows and awards. She was born in New York City and attended the prestigious New York School of Music and Art. Rita Chemers started collecting her work during the 1960's and Karen grew up surrounded by the painter's masterpieces. Jennie's work has been a staple in Chemers Gallery for the last 15 years. She will be sorely missed by those of us who were fortunate enough to meet her.

Misty Landscape - collection of P. Morgan

Jennie's work was slow and painstaking in detail. She painted still life, landscapes, life-like flowers arranged in intricate vases, and portraits. Jennie owned every rug, vase and artifact she placed in her artwork; even the flowers often came from her garden. She didn't limit herself to just one style of painting or just one medium. In the olden days, she also produced etchings and works in graphite. Jennie's classical style has earned a loyal following of fans and collectors. We've seen so many people stopped in their tracks by one of her birch forests or Tuscan vistas. Jennie brought her paintings to life with her jewel-like colors and created an inner light with her shadows and highlights.

Serenity - collection of C. Rowland

Jennie was exceedingly humble. She never bragged about her work, always appreciative for how much we and our clients reacted positively to her art. We don't think she knew just how talented she was, although we told her again and again.

Jennie Tomao at Femmes Artistes group show at Chemers Gallery, 2002

The art world has lost a truly talented artist in Jennie Tomao. Our deepest sympathies extend to her family and friends. Jennie, we love you and will miss you.