Today we’d like to introduce you to Mary Morris.
Hi Mary, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I grew up in Georgia where my father was a veterinarian. Animals and nature sparked an interest in me to draw, paint and create art from an early age. After moving to Washington DC, I studied Fine Art, Art History, and Graphic Design.There I earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from the Corcoran School of Art in 1992.
I then worked as a freelance designer from 1993 to 1997. While raising my children, I started her stationery business, Magpie Designs, in 2005. Using my original watercolor paintings, I designed invitations, announcements, cards, and stationery. Throughout my time in Washington, I was commissioned for oil paintings, invitations, event logos, and Christmas cards for the Bush family.
I studied Oil Painting at The Yellow Barn, The Kentlands, The Arts Barn, and The Compass Atelier in the DC area. In 2020, I completed the three-year Master Artist Program at the Compass Atelier in Maryland under the teaching of the artist and instructor Glen Kessler. I have exhibited nationally in numerous juried shows throughout the country.
After my children were off to college, I realized my dream and moved to Charleston. The magnificent beauty, wildlife, history, and architecture of the Low Country have given me endless inspiration to paint. I am now represented by The Charleston Artist Guild & Gallery on East Bay Street in downtown Charleston. More of my work can be seen and purchased at the wine bar, Uncork Charleston on King Street.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
To create, improve my painting and actively promote myself to the level I would like is a constant challenge.
Accepting that is the key to being at peace and feeling grateful to be doing what I truly love.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
The gravity of motherhood is often a theme in my work. Our children are the gifts from God that become the center of our world at their very first breath. They leave us with wonder and doubt about our past and their futures. The landscape is also a common subject that I enjoy painting. The experience of observing its power and unpredictability; witnessing a glorious sunset that is over in mere moments, it gains value through its transience.
We love surprises, fun facts, and unexpected stories. Is there something you can share that might surprise us?
I participate as a vendor in various arts and crafts festivals throughout the year. There I sell paintings, prints and a variety of gifts I create using oyster shells. I design Oyster Shell Christmas ornaments with hand painted manger scenes, hand painted Lamp Finials, Blessing Beads, Tooth Fairy Boxes and Golden Animal/Coastal Creature Dishes.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.marymorrisart.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marymorrisart/hl=en
