A native of southwest Ohio, Nancy McCarthy grew up with seven brothers and sisters in the quiet neighborhood of Oakwood, outside of Dayton, Ohio. As soon as she could hold a crayon, Nancy's love of art became evident. By age 13, she began to hone her skills in an apprenticeship program with a regionally well-known illustrator. During four years of study, she excelled in many media, including oil, acrylic, watercolor and chalk pastels. While most artists perfect a single medium, Nancy's philosophy differs. In her own words: "The medium adds so much to the character of each piece that I feel it would be a shame to limit my expression by settling into just one."

In 1975, Nancy started her career in commercial art. She moved to Cincinnati in 1977 where she advanced in her field of pharmaceutical advertising by working with a few of Cincinnati's finest art firms. In 1984, she was able to leave her job at Seta, Appleman and Showell, and concentrate entirely on fine art. Beginning as a portrait artist, she was quickly drawn away to follow her passion -- painting the animal kingdom.

Wildlife, horses and other domestic animals have become the focus of Nancy's artistry. The depth and clarity of her work have brought her regional and national acclaim. With a contemporary flair, she creates with a unique style that sets her work apart. "I'd like for the viewer to feel as though they have just experienced a microcosmic moment in the life of the animal. An animal's gesture or expression tells a story or evokes emotion on the viewer's part."

Perhaps you have seen Nancy's work exhibited in one of her many private and public shows. She has exhibited at wildlife shows, equine events, and galleries from California to Massachusetts. Nancy exhibits as a member of the Ohio Society of Nature Artists and maintains a small studio in old Batavia, Ohio.