Artist Statement

For more than three decades, my artistic journey has centered on connection—connection to nature, community, memory, and the human spirit. Working primarily in oil paint, I create images that explore the relationship between the inner world and the natural world, where symbolism, emotion, and observation intersect.

My work is inspired by moments of quiet wonder: a raven's gaze, a butterfly in flight, sunlight filtering through trees, or the feeling of being fully present within a landscape. These experiences become visual metaphors for transformation, resilience, ancestry, and personal growth. Through layers of color, texture, and light, I seek to capture not only what is seen, but what is felt.

Having painted murals throughout the St. Louis region and participated in community art projects, I have long believed that art has the power to bring people together and create meaningful dialogue. Whether working on a large public mural or an intimate canvas, I approach each piece as an opportunity to tell a story and invite reflection.

My background in painting, psychology, education, and public art continues to influence my practice. I am interested in the ways images can evoke memory, spark curiosity, and encourage viewers to find their own meaning within the work. Rather than offering fixed narratives, I create spaces where imagination and personal experience can enter the conversation.

Ultimately, my paintings celebrate the beauty, mystery, and interconnectedness of life. They are invitations to pause, look closely, and reconnect with the wonder that exists within both nature and ourselves.

— Mary Duban