Artist's Bio     A n oil portrait is a precious heirloom. Not only will it be passed down from one generation to the next, it will hold it’s value, last for centuries and perhaps, even one day find it’s way into a museum  collection.  There is no better way to memorialize either yourself or a loved one than in this traditional medium. As a classically trained artist, it is a pure joy for me to become part of this time honored tradition and  paint an oil portrait that embodies the essence and the vitality of a subject. It is my hope to capture  my client’s dreams and visions on linen, creating for them an hierloom that is worthy to be treasured for years to come. .    Each portrait I paint is on pure Belgian linen and I  use only the finest pigments in oils in order to create a work of art that will stand the test of time.  Upon completing three years in an art program at Olivet Nazarene University, Mary was accepted into the American Academy of Art in Chicago.  There she ardently pursued her love of oil portraiture and earned dual degrees  in advertising and illustration. During that time, she also attended fine art classes at the Art Institute of Chicago and classes at the John Robert Powers Agency.  Upon completeing all of her studies, she launced her illustration and portraiture career and has won many awards.  She currnetly works as a full time portrait artist and illustrator, traveling and lecturing. She has done  mini seminars on the ‘Art of the Portrait’ and “The Business of Being an Illustrator’ at private institutions and universities.