Mary Donnelly
Born in Gozo, Malta. My practice is an ongoing study of exploring the underlying compositional structures that lead to an inner dialogue within the work. Formal education began in 1994, continuing on with a Bachelor of Fine Arts and culminating with a Masters in 2008.
My work examines the aesthetic and formal qualities that present themselves within the artistic dialogue of an artwork. I continue to seek out and define the understated beauty of simple objects and to highlight the way they are presented in everyday settings; a collection of objects that would otherwise have gone unnoticed become the subject for observation. Recently there is a change moving through my art's practice.
Winters here can be devoid of colour and upon returning from an overseas trip in July where I had been surrounded with colour, I felt the need to embrace these colours and experiences again. These intensely warm colours now represented hot, balmy carefree days and so began an emotional and physical need to introduce these warm colours into my studio environment and art practice. Suddenly hot pinks and oranges began to command center stage with their complimentary colours falling in line - soft mint greens and turquoise, lime and mauve.
As artists we continue to grow as we move on through our artistic journey to reach our ultimate goal. For me the goal throughout my work has been to simplify; to create harmony; to create something that is pleasing to the eye; to engage the viewer and create an inner sense of order, a balance in the visual experience.
Leave a Trace Spring Group Exhibition, October 2024.
Mary Donnelly, Pink Spoon, Pears and Garlic, 2021, polymer acrylic, charcoal and collage on board, 39.5x45cm. The Corner Store Gallery.