We’re looking forward to introducing you to Mary Lynch. Check out our conversation below.
Good morning Mary , we’re so happy to have you here with us and we’d love to explore your story and how you think about life and legacy and so much more. So let’s start with a question we often ask: What is a normal day like for you right now?
I am both a morning and night person, so my days start at around 4am and end around 11pm.
I normally start my day with a workout, and spend a little time outdoors during early morning hours while I blog and have coffee. After this, I head to my studio, where I almost always have at least three paintings in progress.
Occasionally I go out with friends during the week, but for the most part I’m home with my studio pup, Winston.
I usually spend at least six hours painting, and then stop to make dinner, manage household chores, etc. Most evenings I go back to my studio until 9pm, and then spend an hour doing my least favorite chore of cleaning brushes, lol.
Luckily, I thrive on just four or five hours of sleep!
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I was born and raised in central Arkansas, and have been fascinated by our stormy skies for as long as I can remember. I’ve also been interested in art since very early childhood…one of my earliest memories is starting school knowing how to draw a pretty impressive horse before I could write my name.
I did take a few art classes in high school, but that passion took a back seat after graduation and I became career-focused.
I did find my way back to art, and began painting a little over ten years ago. I had a full-time office job during the day, and spent evenings in my studio until the wee hours. During this time, I opened an Etsy shop, and was basically holding down two full-time jobs.
At the onset of Covid, I quit my day job and took a leap of faith into painting full-time. It’s been a challenge at times with learning all of the other aspects of this new career path, but I have fully enjoyed every moment.
Recently, I enrolled in a certificate-based Art Therapy course, I teach painting workshops, and am so excited to integrate what I learn into my classes. I’ve found that so many people suffer at lease a minor degree of stress and anxiety, and my minimalist style of painting tends to have a soothing effect.
My current goals include expanding my gallery presence into central Arkansas, as well as keeping a presence in Texarkana, where I have a booth in The Gallery at 1894.
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. What part of you has served its purpose and must now be released?
I think the part of me that I’ve held on to for far too long and must be released is a desire/need to be liked by absolutely everyone. This is an impossible goal to achieve. I have such wonderful friends, and they help keep me grounded.
I also realize that not everyone will like my art. I just paint what speaks to my soul, and my painting have found their audience over the years.
What’s something you changed your mind about after failing hard?
I’ve failed too many times to keep track of, and finally realized that it’s not the failure that counts. The important thing is to get back up and try again. Each failure provides an opportunity to learn. These times are really lessons in disguise.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. Is the public version of you the real you?
The public version of me is definitely the ‘real’ me. I’m equally comfortable in my standard uniform of paint-covered jeans and tee vs a little back dress for something like a gallery event. Those who know me well will say that my personality is pretty much consistent.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
I love well and am well loved, and I hope people remember me as someone who is SO much fun and loved to laugh.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.hickory-studio.com
- Instagram: @hickory_studio
- Other: Etsy: hickorystudio.etsy.com
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
