Wendy Wells-Finn, 71, of Fredericksburg, Virginia, passed away peacefully in her sleep on Saturday, August 10, 2024, surrounded by the tender care of her husband, Patrick Finn, and daughter, Willow Wright, after a courageous battle with cancer.
Wendy was an accomplished musician, lifelong artist, and a beloved educator. Over a remarkable career spanning more than 25 years, she dedicated herself to creating art that touched hearts and made statements about life, humankind, and the world. “My art takes many forms,” she once said. “Sometimes I try to make statements about life, humankind, the world, and my place in it. And sometimes I just make things. I create what wasn’t there before. I have discovered that the most valuable asset that I have is courage.”
Primarily self-taught, Wendy honed her skills under the guidance of PBS Series Instructor and award-winning painter Barclay Sheaks, along with nationally recognized artists such as Pat Dews, John Barber, and Nita Leland. Her work earned numerous awards in juried shows, and her pieces are held in collections across the United States and Europe. Wendy was honored with a one-woman show, was a nominee for the coveted Alli Award, and received recognition at the International Art Expo in New York City. Her creative talents extended beyond the visual arts, as she also designed costumes and sets for music videos featuring Grammy-winning artists.
In 1997, Wendy founded the Bay School Cultural Arts Center in Mathews, Virginia, a thriving hub for artists, residents, and visitors alike. Her vision was to create a place where people could come together to share their artistic passions. Today, the Bay School offers over 100 classes in fine arts and crafts, and hosts student performances on its backyard stage, continuing the legacy Wendy began.
As a teaching artist, Wendy’s influence reached students of all ages, from kindergarten to college, and she worked with underserved populations, including mentally challenged students, at-risk children and teens, and seniors. Her passion for education also led her to roles as a consultant for esteemed organizations like the Central Park Conservancy and the Salvadori Center. Wendy’s contributions to the arts were further recognized through her published works in School Arts Magazine.
Beyond her artistic and educational accomplishments, Wendy’s true passion was music. She was an accomplished guitarist, songwriter, and a member of the rock band the Kool-Rays. She continued to compose and play music throughout her life, sharing her love of melody and rhythm with those around her.
Wendy is survived by her devoted husband, Patrick; her loving daughter, Willow, and son-in-law, Andrew; cherished grandchildren, Margaret and Charles; her mother, Judy; and several siblings and extended family members. She was predeceased by her father, Frederick Jr.; her sister, Libby, and her beloved nephew, Freddy IV.
The family will receive friends from 1-2 p.m. on Sunday, September 15, 2024, at Found and Sons Funeral Chapel, 10719 Courthouse Road, Fredericksburg.