About Mary Jennings

Hobbit: "You! Mr. Bilbo, where are you off to?"
Bilbo Baggins: "I'm already late."
Hobbit: "Late for what?"
Bilbo Baggins: "I'm going on an adventure."

The Great Escape

Who doesn’t love to get away? When I feel resistance to stepping outside my daily patterns, I’ve learned it’s often the perfect signal to take the plunge into something new. True growth and transformation often live just beyond the boundaries of comfort. That’s why even the simplest getaway can feel like an adventure—a chance to recharge, expand, and experience the world differently.

Art offers the same kind of great escape. When someone feels they don’t need art, that’s often when they need its benefits the most. Art challenges and inspires. It pushes us out of stagnation and into a deeper connection with ourselves and others. Whether as an artist, educator, student, or collector, art invites us all on a shared journey. It’s an adventure of discovery, reflection, and renewal—essential nourishment for the soul.

For years, I enjoyed working as a mural painter under my company name, Custom Artworks and Creative Solutions. My motto was: “Transform and Escape with Mary Jennings.” I loved creating spaces that swept people away, transforming ordinary environments into extraordinary ones. I like to think my fine art carries that same spirit of transformation.

When I teach, I guide my students on a path to both the challenge and joy of artmaking. I help them see—not just how to create—but how to truly observe and connect with the art around them. This process of seeing is as transformative as the act of creating itself.

My Artistic Journey

Sometimes, we don’t know exactly what we want, but we almost always know what we don’t want. Interestingly, I begin my artmaking by actively seeking a “problem” to solve. This search for challenges is where the creative spark ignites. My artwork is a response to observations, emotions, or moments I feel compelled to explore. One creation often leads seamlessly to another, building a narrative of curiosity and discovery.

I work with a broad range of materials, allowing the subject matter to dictate the medium rather than the other way around. My art is primarily representational and spans drawing, watercolor, acrylic, and oil painting. My portfolio includes commissioned works as well as collections of landscapes, figurative pieces, abstracts, and mixed media.

At one point, I worried about my tendency to explore so many styles and techniques. But a renowned European faux finisher once shared that his work, considered a “trade,” required mastery across countless surfaces, subjects, and methods. His words were liberating, reminding me that versatility is a strength. As a "universal artist," I embrace my broad approach, applying my ability to see and respond to the world in many creative forms.

This perspective has opened doors to other ventures like blogging, stand-up comedy, and even master gardening. These are all expressions of how I process and engage with the world—part of the same great escape.

Why I Love Being an Artist

The best part of being an artist is sharing inspiration and creativity with others. Whether I’m creating art, teaching it, or sharing it with collectors, I’m contributing to something bigger than myself. Art is a bridge—a connection point that brings energy, beauty, and meaning to life.

For me, art isn’t just work—it’s good work. It’s an adventure I’m honored to share with the world.