Artist of the Year

Michael McCarty, longtime member of WAA, was named Artist of the Year for 2026. Through a vote of the membership, his watercolor painting ‘On the River’ won over other 9 Artists of the Month for 2025-2026. Inspired by his curiosity about painting various skies, this three-part composition brings the heavens to life in a dynamic and captivating way. WAA is very proud of our Artist of the Year for 2025-2026 and his accomplishments.   

The annual Artist of the Year competition brings together the year’s Artist of the Month winners, whose work is evaluated through an online member vote. This year’s competition featured exceptional artwork, making the selection especially challenging.

Although McCarty is widely known today for his artistic talent, his professional career began in architecture. Born in Dallas on July 4, 1950, he initially studied engineering before discovering his passion for architecture at the University of Texas at Arlington. After earning his degree in 1979, he spent four decades as a self-employed architect.

Art, however, remained a constant throughout his life. Encouraged by one of his university professors, McCarty developed an appreciation for watercolor painting and later expanded his creative interests to include pottery, woodworking, and quilting. Today, he enjoys watercolor for its spontaneity and unpredictability, describing it as a welcome contrast to the precision demanded by architecture.

For McCarty, whose advice to aspiring artists is simply to “learn to draw”, the Artist of the Year award represents both a personal milestone and a celebration of a lifetime devoted to creativity, craftsmanship, and service to the local arts community. Michael has served on the WAA Board and is always willing to volunteer his help to support the association.

Learn more about Michael in our Spotlight Artist.