Meet Mary Bruns: Fine artist in oil painting

We had the good fortune of connecting with Mary Bruns and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Mary, do you have some perspective or insight you can share with us on the question of when someone should give up versus when they should keep going?
You never know when to keep going or to just give up. My realism is a newer concept in realism and I am simply going to stick with it. Throughout history, money has never been the pivotal choice of quitting or continuing. It is something deep within that spurs you on. I grew up in an isolated rural community with only one other person in my grade. Everyone was pretty much on the same economic level. So I never really thought too much about how much I was going to have to make. The art just came naturally like a dream. So I stay the course. 

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I work in a split imagery, diptyc, style of presentation in oil. I put myself through undergraduate school by working a 40 hour week and taking 18 credit hours each semester. Pretty hard and I don’t think I could ever do that again. I had to wait 10 years to begin a Master’s program. I had moved 5 times to accommodate my husband’s musical career, which was really hard. But I used those years to practice and self study. I finished a Master of Art’s and a Master of Fine Arts at California State University. I believe I was better at it by having some time to find my inner art self. I have a rich background in art history. Studying those that came before me was the best thing I could have ever done. It taught me to have patience and keep looking.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I would take them to the Phoenix Art Museum and all of the great restaurants that are here in Maricopa County. I am a serious ethnic cook and enjoy trying new and amazing flavors. One of my favorite is mole. Another favorite is Thai and Vietnamese food. I remember the first time I had them in Los Angeles where I lived for 15 years. Arizona’s growing popular is as diverse as L.A. now.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My friends are my main stay. They are my encouragement. I have shown in several states and continue to hear wonderful reviews and I appreciate that.

Website: https://www.marybrunsfineart.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oilpaint70
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com