Mary Mahon Foley (she/her)

A love of art was instilled in me at an early age by my mother. Not an artist, but an appreciator, she made sure her children were exposed to all kinds of art and culture. Growing up near New York City gave us many opportunities to experience great museums and galleries. As a child and a teen, I spent many hours drawing. For an introvert, it was a perfect way to escape and create my own world. After high school, I didn't continue with formal art classes, instead focusing on performing arts. Art found me again in midlife as I rediscovered the joy of creating in different art forms: photography, painting, pottery and most recently printmaking.

Since moving to New Mexico in October 2001, I have been inspired to create by the beauty and colors that surround me. While working at CNM, I discovered a printmaking workshop taught by Lyn Pierre and I was captivated by the process - carving or etching, layering ink and watching an image develop - magic! I have continued to study with Lyn and other artists, to build my skills in different types of printmaking, and to develop my own style and voice. I also love mixed media as it allows me to  combine printmakign with other art forms; it suits the dabbler in me who wants to play and discover.

Art gives me renewed focus, allowing me to look back at where I have been, and to now enjoy retirement with more time to create and play. I want to continue to add texture and layers and nourish a sense of wonder, both in art and life.

My vision is to honor my mother's legacy, to inspire others to treasure art and nature, and to contribute beauty and color to the world.