In her most recent paintings, Mary continues her exploration of the unexpected splendor of ordinary and forgotten objects. Items salvaged from scrap metal lots, abandoned buildings and wrecking yards are depicted with the accuracy and sophistication of extravagant still life subjects. In so doing, the artist conveys a profound appreciation of unconventional beauty.
In addition to revering the mundane, these paintings also explore inverse visual relationships. Contrasting elements, such as form (organic/geometric), brushwork (controlled/loose) and chiaroscuro (light/dark) are arranged to enhance their counterpoints. The artist thereby creates an intriguing coalescence of contemporary imagery and classical technique. These paintings juxtapose a multitude of converse aesthetics in a manner that urges the viewer to examine the unique characteristics of objects that would otherwise be disregarded.