Artist Mary Beatty-Brooks finds endless inspiration in nature, often creating still lifes of her flowers and plants. "Whatever I paint is usually inspired by light, space, movement, color, and the way things grow," says Mary. She studied Fashion Figure Drawing in college before transitioning to General Illustration and later earning a graduate degree in Biomedical Illustration. After a 29-year career as a medical illustrator, graphic designer, and photographer, she returned to painting. Her studio, often cluttered, overlooks the woods and her bird feeders, with her dog, Buddy, keeping her company while she works. When not making art, Mary enjoys gardening, walking in nature, and spending time near the ocean. In the summer, she does face painting and henna tattoos at a local amusement park.