Xanda McCagg’s energy and enthusiasm about her work is evident from the moment you start speaking with her. We met at an exhibit opening a few years ago in The Chelsea Arts Building, at Spazio 522. Xanda’s studio is there as well, and soon after, I visited with her and was immediately drawn to her work.

In McCagg’s canvases you can see her background in traditonal figurative work, and yet as her work has evolved - the line, composition and color have abstracted into her unique form of expression.

"Although abstract, my work is influenced by formal principles. At the core of my work is a fascination with the human experience. As an artist, I am observing and commenting on the human condition on both a global and an intimate level ... Central to my work is the analogy of line to form; to light; to color; and to the spaces these describe."

Judy Ross, of Judy Ross Textiles introduced me to Karen Comerford, owner of the beautifully edited home decor shop, Comerford Collection, in Bridgehampton, NY. Karen brought Xanda’s work into the store, a wonderful compliment to Comerford’s aesthetic of “modern handcrafted furniture and design”.

The shop is "Modern," but Karen's goal is to "strip it of its implications of austerity and imbue it with a comfortable, uncomplicated simplicity." The store has achieved that, it's fresh and modern but warm and filled with unique and beautifully designed furnishings (many pieces of her own design), accessories, and art that compliments.

Xanda's work ranges from small, intimate 12"x12" canvases

to the larger-scale canvases like Pearling, 72"x60"

There are colors, textures and always enticing furnishings throughout the shop (and in the window...as in this photo)

I enjoy meeting with both Karen and Xanda in her Chelsea studio each spring to make selections for the summer at Comerford.

In April when we met, Xanda shared some highlights of her experiences at two artists residencies last fall in Europe. First at CAMAC, Centre D'Art, Marnay-Sur-Seine, France and then at the American Academy in Rome - visiting artists and scholars program. Xanda talked about the exhilerating experience of working and living among a community of scholars and artists for several months.

Next up, will be an exhibit in Paris this fall, in October. In the meantime, if you are in the Hamptons this summer, stop in to Comerford Collection for the beautiful selection of both home decor and art ...