About the Artist
Born and raised on Detroit’s east side, Mary moved to Ann Arbor after graduating from University of Detroit Mercy. In 2001, while working as a software designer, Mary began taking classes in photography, drawing, and painting – particularly watercolor. Mary enjoys pencil/graphite drawing. But she absolutely loves watercolor’s translucency, softness, pure beauty and unpredictability. It is a medium rich with both challenges and surprises. Currently, she is pursuing a Masters in Studio Art with a watercolor concentration.
Mary’s artwork often focuses on the tranquility found in nature. She also likes to draw/paint the historic buildings in and around Ann Arbor. Her painting style is strongly influenced by the Impressionists, Post Impressionists, and Landscape Abstract Expressionists particularly Monet, Van Gogh, and Rutenburg.
Mary’s award-winning works are held in public and private collections. Her painting, Downtown Home and Garden, was selected by the Ann Arbor Sister City Program as a gift to the people of Hikone, Japan. Her paintings have been included in numerous juried and open shows. She was awarded 2nd Place in the AAWA 2015 Summer Juried Exhibit for her vibrant watercolor, Rainy Road to Bryson City. Her painting, Les Cheneaux I, received the People’s Choice Award in the AAWA 2016 Spring Show. Mary was heavily involved in AAWA's juried POP-X Festivals entries "The Picnic" and "Side by Side" held in the 2015-2016. Mary also enjoys teaching watercolor workshops for children and adults. She is on the organizing committee and teaching staff of ArtBreak Studio, an art program for the homeless.
Professional Affiliations
National Watercolor Society, Transparent Watercolor Society of America, Membership Committee of Huron River Artist Collective (formerly Ann Arbor Women Artists (AAWA)), National Society of Leadership & Success
Mediums
Watercolor, pencil/graphite, pen & ink, photography
Artist Statement
My watercolor paintings search for and express the unbounding peace, beauty and mystery to be found in nature. Art and nature are so very good for the mind and soul. My hope is that my art causes the viewer to pause, take a breath and smile at the little miracles all around.
Mary’s artwork often focuses on the tranquility found in nature. She also likes to draw/paint the historic buildings in and around Ann Arbor. Her painting style is strongly influenced by the Impressionists, Post Impressionists, and Landscape Abstract Expressionists particularly Monet, Van Gogh, and Rutenburg.
Mary’s award-winning works are held in public and private collections. Her painting, Downtown Home and Garden, was selected by the Ann Arbor Sister City Program as a gift to the people of Hikone, Japan. Her paintings have been included in numerous juried and open shows. She was awarded 2nd Place in the AAWA 2015 Summer Juried Exhibit for her vibrant watercolor, Rainy Road to Bryson City. Her painting, Les Cheneaux I, received the People’s Choice Award in the AAWA 2016 Spring Show. Mary was heavily involved in AAWA's juried POP-X Festivals entries "The Picnic" and "Side by Side" held in the 2015-2016. Mary also enjoys teaching watercolor workshops for children and adults. She is on the organizing committee and teaching staff of ArtBreak Studio, an art program for the homeless.
Professional Affiliations
National Watercolor Society, Transparent Watercolor Society of America, Membership Committee of Huron River Artist Collective (formerly Ann Arbor Women Artists (AAWA)), National Society of Leadership & Success
Mediums
Watercolor, pencil/graphite, pen & ink, photography
Artist Statement
My watercolor paintings search for and express the unbounding peace, beauty and mystery to be found in nature. Art and nature are so very good for the mind and soul. My hope is that my art causes the viewer to pause, take a breath and smile at the little miracles all around.