Today we’d like to introduce you to Mary Spellings.
Hi Mary, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
In 2009, My friend and I felt the Lord leading us to open a cooperative gallery in Jackson Tennessee. At that time there was no place for regional artists to show their work or gather together to support each other in their creative endeavors.We spoke with other co-ops around the country and came up with policies ad procedures to actually run a non profit business.We started with around 25 artists. We have no paid staff. The gallery is a labor of love. Our mission is to Share the Love of Jesus Christ through educational opportunities and support for other artists. Our artists can teach or just show their work in our gallery. We support each other through sharing our artistic experience and being a sounding board for each other.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Actually ,there have been obstacles.We have had a few times where we weren’t sure we could pay all our bills. For instance during covid, our mayor closed all business here for 6 weeks. That was a tough time. W e were able to get some help through the government to help compensate for that loss.a few other times business was just slow. Once, the intersection near us was being modified and each day the news station would say, don’t go near there because of traffic.All in all though we have been very blessed.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I have been painting a long tome, 50 years. One series that I am known for was my landmark series. I did several composite paintings with local scenes in each. These were printed and I sold many prints which are in offices around the city.People love to look at those and share special memories.Now I am probably known for my paintings depicting weathered metal on vehicles. I enjoy entering juried exhibitions. I have earned signature status in several including lifetime membership in the Southern Watercolor Society.
We love surprises, fun facts and unexpected stories. Is there something you can share that might surprise us?
I am a pretty common girl. I live on a farm. I enjoy my animals. I love my family. I love to cook. I enjoy going on mission trips and have been trying to learn Portuguese. I enjoy doing art, mostly watercolors and acrylic pours. I am a very blessed person.I love to share my roses or sourdough bread with others.
Contact Info:
- Website: http://marypspellings.com/
