Architectural Abstraction in Watercolor by William Gilroy

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On the face of it, this artwork shows a building's facade with a balustraded balcony and arched loggias. But there’s … Read more On the face of it, this artwork shows a building's facade with a balustraded balcony and arched loggias. But there’s another dimension, one to be found in the geometric window rhythms and repeating balusters. As Rhode Island artist William “Bill” Gilroy, Jr. (1950–2025) explained, “Though my work is representational, the abstract composition is the underlying element of a piece.”
Known for his evocative watercolors, the artist often explored the interplay and repetition of light and shadow on architectural and natural subjects, achieved in broad watercolor washes, in this case using earthy sienna, ochre, and muted blue-grays for his palette.
A man of many talents, Gilroy began painting during college, eventually earning a master's degree from the University of Rhode Island. Additionally, he worked as a computer scientist for the Navy for nearly four decades before retiring to focus on his art and music. Beyond his visual art, Gilroy was a dedicated bass player who performed in numerous rock and blues bands throughout his life. He was also an avid gardener, creating an English-style garden at his South Kingstown home inspired by his travels to the UK and Ireland. His work has been exhibited in galleries from New York City to Cape Cod, and much of his recent work has been represented by the Charlestown Gallery in Rhode Island.
Signature: Bottom right. Further notation, bottom left, undecipherable. See less