I enjoy painting reality, but cannot help adding the illusory element. I am inspired by nature, from the awesome power of a tornado to the delicate beauty of a seashell. I am drawn to images that resonate with reality, yet amplify color and line. The most commonly asked question about my work has been, “So what is with the tornados?” The simple answer is that they are the perfect symbol of terror and uncertainty in our world, yet they are so completely beautiful in a visual sense. I like to contrast them with symbols of peace as a metaphor for life. Capturing light on form has been one of my obsessions in painting. I love to combine the truth of natural form with capricious pattern and surreal composition.

After many years of working as a commercial artist, I am enjoying the freedom to paint whatever I want. The designer in me loves to play with visual symbols and I find myself gravitating toward allegory.

Mary Mann