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Mary Garrish became an artist later in life than some, but with an enthusiasm that more than compensated for lost time. In her prior career as an ENT surgeon, she developed the self-discipline for long hours and for hard work. As she evolved into a full time artist, she has applied herself diligently to the learning and love of painting. Having the opportunity to work with such great mentors as Albert Handell, Kenn Backhaus, Matt Smith, Doug Dawson and Scott Christensen steered her painting style over several years. More time and contemplation has allowed her to develop he own individual style. She continues to read, to study the work of the great artists, and to spend as much time as possible outside with a canvas. When asked about leaving a career in surgery for full time painting, Mary replies, “I was pulled to art, not pushed from medicine.” Nature has provided a multitude of subjects for her palette. She finds the most satisfaction in working with oil and pastels in the Plein Air setting. "The act of painting landscapes requires the artist to observe the intricacies of nature in a far more detailed way than what is usual for the casual observer. The ever-changing quality of life reminds us of the impermanence of all existence and this awareness beckons us to more fully appreciate all that is before us at any given moment. I believe that it greatly enriches our lives when we are able to appreciate the beauty of the simple and ordinary natural objects that surround us on a daily basis." Mary’s art hangs in galleries in Florida, Virginia, California and New York, in addition to the Dobbin Gallery in South Carolina. Since 1997, she has been selected to participate in numerous national juried shows including Women Artists of the West, Paint America Top 100, Breckenridge Fine Arts Center and the Salon International at Greenhouse Gallery in San Antonio. She also had several one-woman shows at numerous galleries and museums. Recently, she was honored by being chosen the American Impressionist Society National Show Chairman for 2008-2009. She served as president of the society from 2005 to 2007. Garrish is also a member of the Oil Painters of America and a signature member of Plein Air Florida. |
