Mary is a contemporary colourist , painting lively and joyful rural landscapes and coastal seascapes. Her use of rich generously applied colour gives her paintings a sumptuous tactile quality.
The rich and joyful paintings that Mary creates are very recognisable, and she has built up a loyal following of collectors for her work around the world.
"I paint most days. Inspiration is all around. I like to take my subjects from the great outdoors, the landscape around me, the seaside visited or even the garden. All my paintings are a salute to the joy of life, an observation of what goes on around us, and a way of saying just how beautiful the world is. I am an optimist and want you to share my optimism and wonder.
Usually I paint in oils always using my own observation, drawing on the spot, taking photos on the phone, and then back to the studio where the painting takes shape. My style is mainly impressionistic, my influences the Impressionists, Post Impressionists and a lot of Instagram.
I’ve been painting for years and have gradually moved my practice online because here was a new place to share art, that reached people all over the world as well as far flung corners of the UK. Sometimes people who’d never set foot in an art gallery or exhibition space. There's been an awful lot to learn and in truth I spend half the time painting and half the time on the computer. Things were progressing nicely, if slowly, and then the pandemic hit. And I realised somehow, mysteriously, I had all the systems in place and I was wonderfully busy. Who'd have thought? And I am truly grateful that I continue to be busy shipping original paintings and prints to collectors in over 20 countries worldwide.”
welcome to my studio (shed)
I’ve had a studio of my own ever since my children were very young. First of all I shared it with the garden tools, but now this version was built specially for me with plenty of windows. It’s in the garden and has the advantage in that I can block out the rest of the world. Painting takes concentration and I listen to the radio or Amazon’s talking books as I work.
FREQUENTLY ASKED ARTIST QUESTIONS :
How long does a painting take ? That’s a question I dread. It’s difficult to put a time on an individual work. I usually complete one or two paintings a week, and try to be in the studio 5 mornings a week for 5 hours.
Have you always painted? Yes. Since I was very young. My mother painted so it’s something I naturally did. Over the years the more I learn the more hungry I am to find out more and put it all into practice.
Where do you paint? In a studio (shed) in the garden.
Why oil paints? There’s a beauty in oil paints, a medium that has stood the test of time and produced the most memorable and long lasting masterpieces. Nothing compares to its luscious texture, responsiveness to touch or depth and variety of colour. Having said all that it’s also beyond messy and difficult to clean up after. Paints are expensive and it takes forever to dry.
Do you paint commissions? Yes – occasionally if it feels right. I only do a few commissions each year. I look for projects that are in line with my current work. Should you have a special place or subject I’m happy to take a look. I’m always delighted to talk about your vision for a memorable painting.