Our Spotlight on the Arts for April 2026 shines brightly on visual artist and First Place Winner of the 2026 Port of Leonardtown Wine Label Contest, Cynthia Martin-Brennan!
How would you describe your art form?
My practice shifts fluidly between realism and abstraction, often guided by mood and instinct. I create both detailed landscape work that conveys a strong sense of place and richly layered encaustic pieces that explore light, movement, and transformation. Central to my process is my personal photographic archive, which I use as a reference, as a base for painting, or as an integrated element within the final work.
What were your inspirations for your winning piece, Off Dry White?
The inspiration for Off Dry White began as a vivid image in my mind. When I learned the wine would be an off-dry white, I was drawn to create something playful and a bit cheeky, capturing both the lightness and subtle complexity of the wine in a visual form. I had an early taste of the Port of Leonardtown wine before its final stage, thanks to winemaker Lauren Zimmerman, and it was fantastic!!
Do you have a favorite style or other favorite aspect of your artwork?
I especially enjoy working with a blowtorch in my encaustic pieces and exploring abstract compositions. It feels like a full-circle journey—from witnessing rocket launches during my 35+ year career supporting the Space Shuttle and International Space Station to now using heat and flame in my own creative process.
Is your artwork featured at any of the local shops or galleries?
My artwork is currently on display and for sale at the Artworks@7th Gallery in North Beach, Maryland. It is a wonderful gallery where I share space with many talented tri-county artists.
I also have my artwork available for purchase at the St. Mary’s County Arts Council Gallery & Gift Shop located in Leonardtown. I will be at several pop-up shows at the Port of Leonardtown Winery, and also at the Annmarie Gardens Arts Fest in September. Please check my website for pop-up events.
What are your other interests outside of your art?
Beyond my art, I travel to East Africa each year to support local communities and participate in STEM initiatives in local classrooms. Building on my career supporting the U.S. civil space program, I continue to have a strong interest in strategic planning, space-based research, and fostering STEM education.
Is there anything else that you would like to share with us?
I am so honored for my artwork to be chosen as the wine label for the Port of Leonardtown’s upcoming release. I am thankful for the opportunity that was created by the St. Mary’s County Arts Council. There will be a fundraiser for the St. Mary’s County Arts Council on May 21, 2026, at the winery, and it would be wonderful for the community to come out and support the growth of arts in our SOMD peninsula! Information on the fundraiser can be found at: www.smcart.org/2026-fundraiser
Thank you, Cynthia, for being a valued part of our artistic community! Meet Cynthia in person at our fundraiser on May 21st!
Links of Interest
- Cynthia Martin-Brennan website: (CMB Artworks) www.cmbartwrks.com
- Artworks @7th: www.artworksat7th.com
- St. Mary’s County Arts Council Gallery & Gift Shop: www.smcart.org/gallery