Meet Seth McBride, the Artist Behind “Be Cool!”

What makes something cool? For New Bedford artist Seth McBride, the answer can often be found in the places, people, and moments we encounter every day. In his first solo exhibition, Be Cool!, Seth brings together a collection of oil paintings that celebrate the ordinary, transforming familiar scenes and overlooked details into works of art. Some paintings may make you laugh, others may spark a memory, and some may simply encourage you to look a little closer at the world around you. Rooted in observation and a deep appreciation for everyday life, Be Cool! invites viewers to discover that there is plenty worth noticing hiding in plain sight.

What materials do you work with?

I am an oil painter and I use oil paint on canvas, gessoboard and paper.  

Tell us about your current body of work. What motivated it?

This body of work encompasses the past few years of my life and focuses on paintings of people and things that I have come across.  I enjoy painting figures, capturing routine moments in everyday life, as well as retro objects that bring a feeling of nostalgia.

Do you work full-time as an artist or do you wear other hats?

I currently work in a middle school as a paraprofessional but have recently got my teaching license for the visual arts.  My primary background was in spirits and hospitality but have recently transitioned into arts and education.

How do you integrate art into your life and other responsibilities? 

In any environment, especially professional, I encourage adding art.  I think applying an artistic touch to a project can only elevate it.  I currently use this at the school I work at, encouraging students to add an artistic touch on any project.  Outside of work and my own painting, I am an avid antiquer and art collector and enjoy decorating my house with my personal collection.

How has your art practice evolved over the years? 

I was always a drawer, especially in my younger years.  I transitioned into using paint markers, then to watercolors, then to acrylic and finally settled on oil as my main medium.  It was challenging but fun working my way through the mediums and  I’m happy it led me to oil paints. I started working small on paper and panels and now enjoy working on large scale canvases and gesso boards. I have always been fascinated by figures and continue to paint figures although the skill and detail has fortunately increased throughout the years.

What or who inspires you? 

Everyday life inspires me.  I capture mundane images of everyday life and try to immortalize them on canvas.  Other artists also continue to inspire me daily.  Through social media, I have been able to see paintings and connect with artists all over the world that get the waves moving in my brain.

Who are some of your favorite artists?  

Some of my favorite classic artists are Rembrandt, John Singer Sargent, Edward Hopper and Roy Lichtenstein.  Some of my favorite modern artists are Mauro Martinez, Sean Hamilton, Jessica Brilli and various tattoo artists.

How is community important to you as a practicing artist? 

Connecting with the community is important in order to connect with people who appreciate art, connect with other artists and to build relationships locally.  I’m naturally an introvert so getting opportunities like this at Groundwork allows me to get my work out there and to meet like minded people. 

What is the biggest challenge you face as an artist?  

Every painting presents a new challenge for me.  It is a constant learning process and I surprise myself every time by learning new techniques and finding ways to achieve my goal.

What are your goals for the future?

My goal is to create paintings that resonate with people and allow them to build their own narrative and connection with the image.  If all goes well, I would love to continue to produce paintings, sell some and get my art into public and private collections.

Where can people find and connect with you (in person or online):

• My website with my full portfolio as well as an online store can be found at www.sethmcbride.com
• I am also active on instagram @sethmcbreeze

Be Cool! will be on view at Groundwork Art Space from June 1 through the end of July 2026. Visitors are invited to explore the exhibition through free self-guided tours during Groundwork’s staffed hours, Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM.

For those interested in learning more about the work and the stories behind it, Seth will host a Meet the Artist gathering on Saturday, June 20th from 4:00–6:00 PM at 1 Maxfield Street in New Bedford. This in person, community event is an opportunity to view original paintings and prints for sale, and engage in conversation with Seth about the inspiration, process, and observations that shaped Be Cool! Light refreshments, snacks, and music will be provided. Come enjoy a pre-dinner experience and discover what has been hiding in plain sight all along.