Mary Dolan

Artist Statement

Naturalism, or things of life; people, landscapes or objects in their everyday setting, is the primary reason I decide on a particular subject to paint. If the painting is of something inherently beautiful, then my goal is to show that to the viewer. If it takes on a plain or everyday character I will pursue that quality.
I work the subjects both from life and from photos equally, and while many purists would argue against this method, it works for me so for the time being I will continue with the practice. The exception to that would be figure drawing. That is a practice I greatly enjoy and it is always done with the model.
While I do have advanced education in studio art believe that most of my training occurred
"after "school" when working beside and in later classes with other artists and advanced teaching professionals.
I did complete a Master's degree in Art History and out of all of my educational experiences this is the one for which I am so grateful to have completed. It has consistently helped me discern, direction in method, technique and themes.