Mary Curtin
What are your earliest memories of being artistic? My sister and I would make books together when we were really young, she would write and I would draw. I was always drawing or painting as a kid and am very lucky that my family has always supported me in my artistic endeavors.
When did art become a pursuit? By high school I was highly invested in art, taking as many art classes I could and spending most of my free time painting. It is what has always got me through hard times. Knowing that I would be creating art regardless of what else was happening in my life I decided to go to an art college and I have been lucky enough so far to find a job where I can use my degree as well as having free time to work on my personal art.
How did you first become involved with CAA? I was accepted into last year’s emerging artist exhibition. After learning about the great community and resources it has for artists I decided to join!
What role do you think the artist plays in society? I find that making and looking at art is very cathartic and can bring people together. Finding new artists I can relate to as well as meeting people who enjoy my work shows there is a community of like-minded people, making me feel more connected to the world. Art is essential for people to be able to express themselves and their ideas, adding something to the world for others to appreciate.
What medium do you currently work in and how did you choose this medium? I work mostly with watercolor, sometimes along with pen or acrylic paint. I had a problem overworking my paintings when using with acrylic or oil paint, by switching to watercolor I have become more deliberate and can find the end to a piece better. I also love the texture of a watercolor painting which is what drew me to the medium.
How do you choose your subject matter? Is there a reoccurring theme that carries throughout your work? I’ve always been greatly influenced by folklore, mythology and the occult. My interests change focus from time to time, lately I’ve been into painting a lot of witches, but there is always a theme of otherworldliness.
What is one of your artistic goals for 2018? I have some time off this summer and I plan to take advantage of that by exploring different artistic channels that I’ve always wanted to delve into. I am looking forward to designing some patterns and trying my hand at making a comic.
Do you own any art by other artists? Yes! Mostly in the form of prints and patches lately. Some artist I have work from recently: Bill Crisafi, Adrienne Rozzi, Valerie Pauline, Kelly Louise Judd, Henry Hablak.
Do you have any shows coming up? Yes, I’ll be in this year’s emerging artist exhibition here at the CAA. I am also in Dorchester Art Project’s ‘Alterations: a selection of shrines” which runs from July 21 – August 26
See More From Mary!
Website: www.marysineadcurtin.com
Instagram: @valaridesawolf