Megan Caldwell

Megan Caldwell is a distinguished painter whose roots stretch from the Appalachian heritage to the picturesque Shenandoah Valley. Born on the Ft Belknap Indian Reservation in Montana, where she was delivered by her father, Megan's early life was marked by a significant move to Winchester, Virginia, in 1984. It was in the Shenandoah Valley that she found her artistic calling.

From a young age, Megan’s natural talent for drawing was evident and nurtured, leading her on a path filled with creativity and expression. She refined her skills at Hendrix College, located just outside Little Rock, where she majored in painting and art education, with a particular emphasis on oil painting. This educational journey laid the groundwork for Megan's classical style, characterized by a strong foundation in drawing, a masterful understanding of color, and the ability to work in layers to create depth.

Megan's career began in the realm of education, teaching art at Powhatan School and later at the Museum of the Shenandoah Valley. However, her desire to focus on her family and personal artistic pursuits led her to leave full-time teaching. In 2016, she embraced a life closer to nature by moving to Sweetrock, her secluded home and studio in the forest. This tranquil setting allows her to devote herself fully to her art while raising four children and a variety of animals.

Caldwell's artwork showcases her versatility and mastery of oil painting, whether capturing the essence of landscapes, the nuanced expressions of people, or the vibrant spirit of animals. She engages in a classical approach to painting, working en plein air, from life, and from studio references, which imbues her work with a sense of immediacy and authenticity.

Committed to ongoing growth, Megan continues to enrich her knowledge by collaborating with other professional painters and offering workshops at the Museum of the Shenandoah Valley and the National Sporting Museum. Her award-winning pieces have been widely exhibited in the Shenandoah Valley and beyond, finding homes in private collections across the country.

Megan Caldwell’s art is a reflection of her deep connections—to her heritage, her surroundings, and the broader artistic community. Through her work, she invites viewers into a world where every brushstroke tells a story of discovery, beauty, and connection.