A Little Bit About Me

 

The quote from the movie Forrest Gump comparing life to a box of chocolates resonates with me deeply. My life has been filled with countless surprises and unexpected adventures, allowing me to travel, discover, and gain invaluable life lessons. This sentiment also extends to my professional journey, which has taken me from being a designer and lecturer to a retail manager and business owner. Ultimately, I made the decision to follow my childhood passion for art.

 

I studied Graphic Communication at Monash University in Australia and lived and worked there for 7 years before returning to the UK. I had the fortunate experience of working with Channel 7 behind the scenes on some great shows. 

 

In 2014 I managed a small business in Pokesdown for three years. This venture allowed me to showcase and sell various artworks and crafts, while also serving delicious coffees. 

 

As well as running the shop, I underwent some training as a Counsellor and explored Art as a tool for therapy. I began conducting workshops for numerous charities and non-profit organizations, including B'EAT, BCHA, Richmond Fellowship, and Rise, among others. These workshops aimed to provide therapeutic benefits through artistic expression. 

 

After a few years, I took a break from my art business and worked as an activities co-ordinator at a care home. Throughout the pandemic, I dedicated myself to creating positive and enjoyable experiences for the elderly and individuals with dementia. It was a rewarding experience, and I am grateful for the opportunity to enrich their lives in meaningful ways.

 

I've been lucky to showcase my artwork in various locations across the UK, including Brighton where I lived for quite a while, as well as Bournemouth and London. I even had the opportunity to exhibit my work at the Brush Gallery in Singapore. Throughout the years, I've had the pleasure of selling many pieces to collectors from all over the world. Interestingly, one of my artworks is owned by a well-known member of the band The Jam. During my career, I've had the chance to work on some exciting commercial projects for a branding company. They specialized in creating merchandise for popular reality shows in the USA, like Gas Monkey and Orange County Choppers. Additionally, I've collaborated with record labels such as Azuli records, where I had the opportunity to illustrate various music covers, including album covers for Space Ibiza. 

 

In recent years, my focus has been on painting and exploring my own unique creative techniques. I love incorporating quirky and whimsical narratives into my artwork, and I rely on my intuition to guide me through the creative process. On top of that, I've also ventured into the world of digital characters and surface pattern design. I've handmade several products

(see my Definitelymary kooky page)

 

 It's been an exciting journey of self-expression, and I don't like to limit myself to a specific style. I enjoy experimenting with different textures and blending vibrant colours together. Most of the time, I have no idea where the final piece will take me, but I keep going until I can confidently say, 'It's Done.'

 

​I am available for commissions, exhibitions and purchases.

 If you want to ask me anything please use the contact page. 

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