With exquisite three-dimensional works of bronze and resin, Mary Pat Wallen describes herself as one of the lucky ones who gets to go to “work” and play.
Art is her escape–a release of tension and concerns. She works, building layer upon layer of what the world may view as “mistakes,” but Mary Pat and her loyal base of admirers perceive as beauty. In fact, through her pieces, she strives to convey grace amid the rust and corrosion of humanity–the controlled chaos, the yin and yang.
ACE 2019’s support of mental health initiatives at NorthShore University HealthSystem is a benefit that resonates with Mary Pat. She understands that all people face difficulty, trials, and struggles and have demons we must face, battle, and overcome. But, she also recognizes our fierce resilience, likening it to the boughs of a willow tree that bend through the storms but do not break.
Revel in more of Mary Pat’s work on her website or join her in person at the American Craft Exposition (ACE) September 20-22, 2019 at the Chicago Botanic Garden.
Tickets to ACE 2019 are available here now.