Thursday, September 3, 2015

Mary McHugh


I Hear You
collage on paper
8" x 8" 2015



Into the Woods
collage on paper
8" x 8" 2015


B Is For Balancecollage on paper
7" x 7" 2015



Uncharted Journey
collage on paper
8" x 8" 2015

Artist Statement
The four collages I created for this exhibit demonstrate my varied use of color palate and design.   These choices reflect my keen interest and delight in applying new techniques to my work.  Although diverse, there is a consistent motif in each collage.    In my dreams and inner work, birds play an important role.  They offer me insight into what is ‘taking flight’ and a way to connect to the spirit world.  I love working in this medium and hope you enjoy these pieces as much as I have in creating them.

"You are an artist of the spirit.  Find yourself in your own way.  Express your love openly.  Life is nothing but a dream and if you create your life with love, your dream becomes a masterpiece of art."
Don Miguel Ruiz


Bio
Mary McHugh is a full-time social worker who loves the process of creating collages to find a personal and playful expression of her spirit.  She was first introduced to collage in 2009 by Karen Arp-Sandel during a week-long workshop entitled "Vibrant Visionary Collage".  Since her first introduction to collage, she has attended a number of workshops and classes throughout the northeast.  The work of collage artists, Jane Davies, Melinda Tidwell, Randel Plowman and Anthony Gerace are influences in her work.  Mary lives in Albany, New York and finds inspiration from the nature that surrounds her in Adirondack Mountains to the north, Catskills to the south and the Berkshire and Green Mountains to the east.  She graduated from Syracuse University with a masters degree in social work specializing in family therapy.  Her education has been put to good use over the last 30 years culminating in her present position as Director of Strategic Clinical Solutions for the New York State Office of Mental Health.