About the Artist

Artist Statement:

Inspired by nature’s shifting seasons, I explore color, texture, and light to create works that reflect its spiritual abundance.  My intention is to connect the human spirit with the sacred beauty found in landscapes and wildlife. Despite the common distractions of life, I invite viewers to pause and discover their own meaning or unique story within each piece.  I’m drawn to the quiet significance found in everyday moments and interactions, and I aim to reflect those powerful, often subtle, connections in my art. 

Bio:

Mary Trosien is a mixed media artist working in the style of Abstract Realism.  She often uses elements of nature and wildlife to symbolically represent deep spiritual concepts and human attributes.  Her use of bold color, layered textures, and collage elements invites viewers to pause, reflect, and discover their own narrative within each piece. At the heart of Mary’s work is a celebration of joy, light, and the transformative beauty that can emerge—even from brokenness.

Art has always been part of Mary’s life. She has explored many creative paths, including jewelry making, pottery, watercolor, and alcohol inks. In 2022, after a 30-year career in nursing, she embraced her passion to create full-time to overcome physical, spiritual and emotional burnoutand began her journey as a professional artist.

Mary lives in Chesapeake, Virginia with her husband Dave, their dog Luna, and a flock of chickens—all of whom have names. She has one daughter living in Raleigh, North Carolina. Alongside her art practice, Mary is a dedicated Chesapeake Master Gardener volunteer, actively involved in community gardening projects throughout the city.

She is a graduate of the Milan Art Institute’s Mastery Program (September 2023) and was honored with the Ellen B. McKinnon Memorial Award at the 60th Annual Ocean View Art Show in Norfolk, VA (October 2024), recognizing her as an emerging artist to watch.

Upcoming Shows: Spring 2026: 

Chesapeake Spring Arts Festival April 25-26, 2026, Chesapeake City Park, Chesapeake, VA

Arts In The Middle  June 6-7, 2026, Urbanna, VA