Artist Spotlight: Mary Cooper
A Journey of Transformation
Some of the most compelling stories emerge from unexpected places. Mary Cooper, a mixed media artist based in the Southeastern United States, exemplifies how life's winding path can lead to profound artistic expression. Her transition from public health professional to intuitive painter isn't just a career change—it's a testament to the transformative power of art and faith.
Finding Art Through Life's Changes
Cooper's artistic journey began in childhood, where summer breaks provided windows into creativity. However, her initial career path led her toward public health, where she established herself as a Registered Dietitian with advanced degrees. It was her role as a United States Air Force spouse that unexpectedly nurtured her artistic inclinations. Over 25 years of military relocations, each move became an opportunity to explore creativity through various art classes.
The COVID-19 pandemic proved to be a pivotal moment in Cooper's artistic evolution. What started as a period of global uncertainty became her catalyst for deeper artistic pursuit, culminating in her graduation from Milan Art Institute's Mastery Program in July 2022.
The Spiritual Connection
For Cooper, art transcends mere technique—it's a spiritual practice that begins before brush meets canvas. "It is important for me to acknowledge my faith, emotions, spirituality, and intentions through meditation and prayer," she explains. "Getting into my 'right brain' is part of my intuitive process which I use to evoke emotions through my art."
This spiritual approach extends beyond personal practice. Cooper advises fellow artists grappling with difficult emotions to embrace journaling and right-brain stimulation through unconventional methods like non-dominant hand writing, spontaneous doodling, and movement to music. She draws inspiration from entrepreneur and spiritual activation expert Oliver Nino's wisdom: "The light within you is the solution to the darkness around you."
A Masterwork of Faith: "Watch Over Me"
Perhaps nowhere is Cooper's spiritual connection more evident than in her powerful work "Watch Over Me," a mixed media portrait of Jesus that marked a profound moment in her artistic journey. The piece emerged from a poignant Easter homily that emphasized the importance of reflecting on Christ's sacrifice alongside the celebration of resurrection.
"My 'Watch Over Me' painting deepened my faith," Cooper reflects. "I portrayed the look of blood droplets, bruising and tears to depict the pain that Jesus went through while dying on the cross for us. I also wanted to reflect that He has risen, so I painted the crown of thorns gold in color, like the sun rising, and depicted the light of heaven appearing to shine through to us."
Through works like these, Cooper demonstrates how art can serve as both a personal spiritual practice and a powerful medium for sharing faith with others. Her journey from public health professional to spiritual artist shows that sometimes our greatest calling requires us to take unexpected paths—and have the courage to follow them.
“It is important for me to acknowledge my faith, emotions, spirituality, and intentions through meditation and prayer. Getting into my ‘right brain’ is part of my intuitive process which I use to evoke emotions through my art.”
“Mary Cooper’s ‘Watch Over Me’ – A powerful mixed media portrait of Jesus that blends faith, emotion, and artistic intuition.”
Quick Fire Q&A
Q: What’s your go-to coffee order? A: Mocha Latte
Q: Early bird or night owl? A: Night Owl
Q: One tool you can’t live without in your studio? A: Posca Mop’r
Connect with Mary Cooper
Feeling inspired? You can follow Mary’s artistic journey on Instagram @marycooperportera and explore more of her work on her website artbymarycooper.com
