Article

Margo Connolly-Masson

New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park

Artist-in-Residence: Margo Connolly-Masson

(October- December 2022)

Capturing Communities Through Art and Storytelling

Margo Connolly-Masson, a collage artist and oil painter from southeastern Massachusetts, brought her creative vision to New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park during her Artist-in-Residence tenure from October to December 2022. Known for her vibrant, textured works inspired by the people and places around her, Connolly-Masson used her residency to complete her children’s book, And Then…Glen!.

A New Bedford Native with a National Perspective

“I grew up in New Bedford and have lived and worked across the United States, from Massachusetts to Alaska,” Connolly-Masson explained. Her work reflects a deep connection to the communities she has called home. Whether roaming beaches, working on docks, getting stuck in salt marshes, or observing the natural and built environment, she draws inspiration from her surroundings. “My artwork reflects what I see around me from a perspective of curiosity, respect, and a desire to share it with others.”

A Residency of Creativity and Connection

During her residency, Connolly-Masson worked on And Then…Glen!, a whimsical story about a herring gull named Glen. The Artist-in-Residence program offered her the time and inspiration to bring her vision to life. Drawing from the maritime history and rich culture of New Bedford, she infused her book with the textures, colors, and stories of the region.

Her residency also deepened her connection to the local community. “When I collage, I use papers that have meaning and connection to the subject,” she shared. For And Then…Glen!, she incorporated materials sourced directly from New Bedford, including menus, city maps, and brochures. These pieces became her canvas, layered with pencil, pen, and acrylic paint to create vibrant, textured illustrations.

And Then…Glen!: Glen’s Big Personality

And Then…Glen! tells the story of a herring gull named Glen, a bird with a big personality and even bigger plans. Whether he’s looking to cause trouble or just searching for breakfast, Glen always seems to be at the center of the action. Readers follow him as he explores Downtown New Bedford, meeting a National Park Ranger along the way and creating moments of chaos, humor, and heart.

The book also aims to be accessible to readers with dyslexia or visual processing challenges. Connolly-Masson was intentional in the design, ensuring clear, readable text and illustrations that support comprehension and engagement. Through thoughtful choices in font style, size, and layout, she has made And Then…Glen! welcoming for a diverse audience of young readers.

Art for All

Connolly-Masson is passionate about making art accessible to everyone. In addition to her children’s book, she creates calendars, notecards, and other items that bring her work to a broader audience. “I believe art should not be reserved only for people who can afford a large original piece but should be accessible at a variety of price points, including free public art,” she explained.

Her commitment to accessibility extends to her educational efforts, where she inspires young artists to explore their own creativity and find meaning in the world around them.

A Legacy of Connection

Connolly-Masson’s participation in the Artist-in-Residence program at New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park is a testament to her mission of fostering connections through art. “I am most proud of my ability to use my art to connect people to one another and to the places where they live,” she reflected.

Her vibrant, community-inspired work—including And Then…Glen!—celebrates creativity, connection, and the stories that define us. By making her art accessible and inclusive, Connolly-Masson invites us all to look closer, think deeper, and connect more meaningfully with the world around us.

For more information about the Artist-in-Residence program at New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park, visit nps.gov/NEBE. To explore Margo Connolly-Masson’s art and And Then…Glen!, visit your local bookstore or online retailer.