Sherry McAdams


Sherry McAdams is a North Carolina contemporary painter whose work has roots in the abstract expressionist tradition, yet embraces a style that is uniquely her own. Shapes and line appear to morph in and out of focus, and subtle imagery whispers beneath the surface. Sherry’s art combines energetic brushwork, along with a mysterious layering of color and texture to create a variety of soft and hard passages to capture the viewer’s attention.

Sherry attended East Carolina University, and earned a BFA from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. Her background as a graphic designer for 30 years influences her use of strong color and design. Her work continues to gain favor with clients for commercial, as well as, residential use. You will find her work in public and private collections across the US. Represented by O’Brien Gallery/Greensboro, NC; Lucky Fish Gallery/ Grandover Gallery/Greensboro, NC; The Very Thing, Ltd/Burlington, NC; Vita Vite/Raleigh, NC.

She was the 2013 National winner of The Artists Series Wine Label Program sponsored by The Capital Grille restaurant and Darden Inc. The abstract painting selected for the wine label went on a tour across the US to be auctioned for the charity Share Our Strength. The painting was purchased by Janie Hendrix (sister of the late Jimi Hendrix).  

She is currently living in Elon, North Carolina, with husband Jeff.

Artist Statement

My art reflects my imagination and intuition, and my passion for exploring and communicating through color and design. Through painting, my ideas and visions become tangible, providing a language to encourage, share, inspire, and uplift. I enjoy energetic brushwork, along with a mysterious layering of color and texture. Each painting evolves, and as a result, every painting is as individual as the moment in which it was created.

Over the past few years, I have become captivated by the concept of incorporating the colors and forms of nature more directly into my abstract work. I have southern (NC) roots that continue to surface in my work. The Carolina coastal region is my happy place, and those colors will always be an inspiration for me.

Working primarily with acrylics, I love the process of adding layers of color and texture. Pushing through layers of wet paint with mark-making tools to reveal hidden color never gets old. Each painting is a journey and a wonder. Painting is my passion!