Fred Bodin Submits-
Chipp and one of his beloved pugs at Mother Ann Cottage, Eastern Point
I first met Chipp in my gallery when he was looking for a historic photo of his summer home on Eastern Point, Mother Ann’s Cottage. I had a good one, and it hangs in his home. I know people, and Chipp was one of those I instantly liked. He was sweet and affable, honest and trusting, and one could tell there was a depth of fascinating background behind this guy. He was an art director for major advertising agencies in New York City, and later devoted himself to full-time painting.
His year–round home was Wusapinuk Lodge, in woodsy Westerly, RI, which coincidentally was just up the road from where my parents lived in nearby Hope Valley, RI.
From Chipps website: I began my early art training during summers spent in the Eastern Point, Gloucester, MA. summer studio of the marine artist Amee Davis (1893-1972), my maternal grandmother. To this day I continue to spend part of every summer painting in that same studio next to the lighthouse. My subjects are New England coastal scenes, rivers, lighthouses, beaches, and groups of people I call PEOPLESCAPES.
After a formal art education in Rome, Italy and The Tyler School of Art, Temple University (BFA1970) in Philadelphia, I pursued a successful career as a T.V. and print Art Director in New York City. (J.Walter Thompson, BBD&O, SSC&B Lintas, etc.) I gave up my “day job” as V.P. in charge of B.S. in 1998 to paint full time.
Painting by Chipp Wells.
I regret that we never got together, as invitations were extended for both Rhode Island and Gloucester. Rest in peace, Chip, and be assured that many folks will miss you. I for one certainly will.
Your friend, Fred
Good Morning Gloucester 
So very sorry to hear of Chipp’s passing. I knew him and his sister Ariel from growing up on Eastern Point. As a teen he was a great guy though he was weary of my handing out with his sister. Are there any details on how, when and where? Any services planned?
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That should be “he was wary of my hanging out with his sister”. Bad fingers… bad
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Another Oops, His sister, Jeannine
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I don’t know how or when Chipp passed. I haven’t heard about any arrangements.
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Thank you!
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My deepest sympathies. So sad.
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My husband Theo and I were very good friends of Chipp’s from Connecticut. When we sold our CT home in November, we moved to Mother Ann cottage for the winter, yes the winter!. We had such an amazing time there! We emailed so many beautiful pictures to Chipp during our stay. We know how much he loved Mother Ann, and Gloucester. We were hoping to visit him this coming October on Eastern Point. All of our CT friends are devastated by this loss. Chipp was truly a wonderful man in ways too numerous to mention…
We will miss him dearly.
Emma and Theo Tracy
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I worked with Chipp in Darien, and just heard about his passing. A very talented man as well as a truly nice guy. I was very happy for him when he left to pursue his painting. My condolences to his entire family
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Chipp was a fantastic neighbor and friend while we were at the lighthouse. We will miss him dearly!
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Chip was the best neighbor in westerly – opened his home for block parties and would often bring his pugs to visit the neighborhood dogs – boy scout drive will never be the same – will miss you
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So sad! Still can not believe it. I can second that he was a genuinely nice and fun loving guy. A pleasure to work for! No matter how terrible your day was within minutes he could have you smiling! Such a sweet guy! You will be missed Chipp!
My condolences to his family.
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I believe he passed away Tuesday night. He had had surgery on his back recently, which for those who knew him was a constant source of discomfort. There may have been complications after. I am not sure of the specifics. Hopefully soon there will be news on wake/funeral arrangements.
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My husband Jay was Chipp’s barber for many years. He became a dear friend. We were shocked to hear of his passing. He will be missed…..
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Chipp was a great guyl I will also miss him.
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