Mary Benke combines the creative use of texture, color and design to evoke emotion and a strong sense of imagery in her paintings. She strives for an impressionistic feeling in her works, which include landscapes inspired by the beauty in Colorado’s outdoors, intriguing scenes from her travels, or flowers and wildlife found in her own backyard. She is drawn to the luminosity of watercolor and the vibrant textures of pastel, and paints in both media depending on the subject. She also enjoys the challenges and rewards of plein air painting and mixed media.

Her passion for art began in high school and college. She earned degrees in journalism and English at the University of Southern California, while also studying painting and drawing. After working as a magazine editor and graphic designer for 20 years, she rediscovered fine art through watercolor and pastel classes and workshops.

Her award-winning work has been juried into numerous national and regional art exhibitions. She is a signature member of the Pastel Society of Colorado.

You’re invited to visit her website at: www.marybenke.com