Biography
Growing up in New Bedford, Massachusetts, Mara formed an early connection with nature and drawing. The ocean, woodlands, and animals were her inspiration. She earned a BFA in Oil Painting from Boston University, where she studied with Congor Metcalf, Lloyd Lillie, David Aaronson, David Ratner, and Nicholas Edmunds.
Mara is currently focusing on oil, acrylic, and pastel mediums, in both realistic and abstract styles. Her work is in many collections and she has served on the boards of directors of two artist groups, including Cambridge Art Association.
Mara is also a graphic design consultant, with past and present clients at leading corporations in healthcare and finance. She has also worked as an art educator in the public schools of Boston, Natick, and Holliston, as well as in her own studio.
Artist's Statement
I have been an artist forever... it's just who I am, and it runs in the family. When I am not painting, I can often be found outside, hanging out with the horses, riding trails, and in the garden. When I was small, I dreamed of living in the country on a little farm. I am fortunate to be living my dream.
In my work, I try to return to the state of love, strength, and sense of place that nurtured me as a young person and raises me up to challenge every new day with curiosity and creativity, a quest symbolized by my griffin*. My work is informed by classical techniques and a love of abstraction. My art is an exploration and celebration of beautiful light and shadow on everything in my world, especially nature and the figure.