Mary Ann Brinkley

Mary Ann’s interest in painting was sparked as a child while watching her grandmother Coder painting oil pictures of the Rocky Mountains and other things in nature.  It made her aware of the endless possibilities for finding beauty in the world.  She says, “Pictures can be found in the strangest places and I am always looking for my next one.”  She started painting in oil as a young woman and loved it.

After she graduated with a degree in Education and Biology from Lycoming College in Williamsport, PA, her life became too busy with teaching and raising a family.  So it wasn’t until 2005 that Mary Ann picked up a brush and explored painting again, only this time using acrylics, and later watercolor and oils.

Then, when she got a new camera, her interest turned to photography which quickly changed into something that fed her desire to paint as well as to take photographs that could stand on their own merits. Some of her paintings come from her photographs taken locally or on vacations.  Her photographs as well as her paintings are used to create her Natural Inspirations Greeting Cards as well.  Now, however, she prefers working in acrylic, watercolor or oil.  She is especially fascinated with the challenges of watercolor.  She is a work in progress and finds it very satisfying to watch how her art evolves.   

Mary Ann is a member of the Alliance Art Gallery in historic downtown Hannibal and enjoys the opportunity to exhibit and sell her work.  When she can witness the connection someone makes with her work it makes it all so rewarding.