LOCAL ARTIST PROFILE Mary Intven Wallace by Peri Hayes
Mary Intven Wallace enthusiastically discusses her lifelong passion: “I have been drawing, painting and creating ever since I can remember. Growing up with six siblings on a large property in St. Thomas, creativity and independence were encouraged. When not in school, we spent most of our waking hours in the outdoors where we were free to play, explore and make imagination come to life. For a week each summer, my parents packed us into the back of a Station Wagon and travelled to our Algonquin Park campsite. I fondly recall the joy and wonder I felt hiking and canoeing in the majestic landscapes there; that feeling has stayed with me. In the natural world, I find serenity, peace and a deep sense of belonging.” Following Mary’s early art experiences, she studied her craft at the University of Western Ontario. Upon graduating, she launched a Brantford art and craft workshop space in association with the Glenhyrst Art Gallery and 12 local artists. In Haliburton County, Mary opened her own Log Cabin Arts and Crafts shop as a means to share her personal creations. During this time, she began teaching at the Haliburton School of Art and Design where she has been part-time faculty for four decades. “Now, back in my hometown of St. Thomas,” Mary expresses, “I love exploring and painting the land, water and skies of the beautiful natural world of our Carolinian forests. My artwork has been shown in public and private collections in Canada, as well in the books I have illustrated and written. For all the years of my adult life, I’ve had the privilege of working as an artist, educator
and author.” Through Mary’s influence, she celebrates diversity and heritage. In 2017, Mary was awarded The YMCA of Western Ontario’s ‘Woman of Excellence in Arts, Culture and Education’. Describing her artistic style, Mary presents: “In my art making, I strive to inspire a world in harmony where creativity bridges cultures and beauty fosters peace. For the last several years, I have been painting vibrantly coloured impressionistic paintings of the land, sea and skies of Canada’s iconic landscape. I was blessed with generous mentors who supported me on my life’s journey in the art world. My landscape painting process evokes this intimate connection with Mother Nature.” Proceeding to detail what this meaningful resource represents for Mary, she thoughtfully offers, “Art is a wonderful way to remind ourselves that we are creative beings at our core. I feel that the act
Page 6 Hometown St. Thomas • November 2024
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