Through bold, expressive colors and a variety of mediums, artist Maria F. Dene, who has family ties to the D-E community, captures the beauty and spontaneity of the natural world. We’re delighted to feature her work as part of the Swartley Gallery Series, curated by Art & Design Chair Marisol Diaz. During a recent meet-the-artist lunch reception, Maria described herself as a self-taught artist whose creative pursuits have included building and painting a dollhouse from scratch. She said she credits her girlfriend, Dianne Snyder, for encouraging her to share her work with the public. “She doesn’t toot her own horn, but she’s very creative in all that she does,” said Dianne. Among Maria’s most meaningful pieces are ones she created for her granddaughters, including a rainbow unicorn, a blue-hued cat, and a piece titled “Tie Dye Potions,” which blends vibrant acrylic colors in a playful, free-flowing composition. Here’s to art that inspires curiosity and invites connection!
