Name: Jessica Pappathan.
Occupation: Outgoing Communications Director at McGowan Fine Art.
What was your favorite part about working at McGowan?
Every day brought something new. Artists are continuously bringing in new artwork, and it is exciting to have that first look. I love working with artists directly, and helping to promote and share their work with a larger audience. Most days did not feel like work – it was too fun!
Besides Henry, what will you miss the most about the job? Will there be dogs to pet at your new gig?
The people – Sarah (Chaffee) and Amanda (McGowan Lacasse), our artists, clients and visitors. I will also miss being surrounded by beautiful art every day. No dogs at the new gig…yet.
What will you miss most about Concord itself?
Concord has a great sense of community that I have loved being a part of. And obviously, I’ll miss the Insider!
Any chance your artwork will appear on the gallery walls one day?
Sarah would have to really lower the bar for that to happen…
What’s the most valuable piece of art you’ve ever handled?
We see lots of unique treasures come through the door for framing (another fun part of the job). So, I am going to guess that the most valuable piece of art was probably something brought in by a client for framing. If not that, then probably a 16th century Renaissance print from a previous position.
Have you ever tried to recreate a piece that hung in the gallery?
It would be fun to try, but I don’t think I could do our artists justice.
If you could only put work from one artist in your home for the rest of your life, who would it be? And why?
I don’t think I can pick just one. My taste can be pretty eclectic, and I tend to fall in love with specific pieces, rather than just one artist. In my home, I like to mix it up, with a variety of styles.
Picasso or da Vinci?
da Vinci.
Watercolors or magic markers?
I am in awe of good watercolorists. Watercolors are actually a lot more tricky to use than you would think! The paper absorbs the paint very quickly, so the paint can be unforgiving. That said, I have seen some pretty good magic marker drawings at my son’s preschool.
How does it feel to be the second Pappathan to depart a beloved Concord business?
Unlike my sister, I am staying in NH… so at least I can still visit. I bet she doesn’t even call or write you guys. Don’t worry, I will yell at her for you. I am her big sister after all.
If you were going to recommend a painting to hang in the Insider office, what would it be? How else could we class up the joint?
You are a fun group, so I am going to say something abstract, colorful, with maybe a touch of whimsy. The Bruce McColl show is currently up, and one of his paintings would be perfect. We also find that serving wine and cheese can make any occasion instantly classy.
Guilty pleasure?
Reality shows.
Hidden talent?
My son and I can sing a pretty good duet from Frozen.
