The Journey of a Sage
Maryanne Grando is an artist living and working in the vibrant landscape of North Queensland. .
Her artistic journey is deeply intertwined with her personal exploration of the self, drawing inspiration from Carl Jung's psychology and the timeless wisdom of the collective unconscious. This interest in the human psyche was first sparked during her years as a hairdresser, where she discovered she had become a creative confidant for many of her clients. This experience, listening to the stories of people and their life journeys, laid the foundation for her fascination with the inner landscapes of the soul.
Maryanne’s art is also profoundly influenced by nature and the powerful connection she believes we share with animals, seeing them as a mirror to our own souls. This philosophy is the cornerstone of her work, and she strives to capture not just the visual scene, but its spiritual and emotional essence. Having honed her skills through studies at the Milan Art Institute, Maryanne's work is a testament to her technical training and her deep-seated artistic vision.
Through her paintings, Maryanne aims to be a guide for others, helping them navigate their own inner worlds. She hopes that the essence of her art resonates with those who encounter it, sparking a sense of wonder and encouraging a deeper exploration of the "Self". Her brand is a testament to her belief that "Art is a transformative force—a catalyst for healing and a path to discovering our most authentic self." Maryanne Grando
Maryanne's recent series, "Symbols of Fur and Feather," delves into the profound connection between our focus and reality. Each piece in the collection serves as a visual meditation, where the artist has integrated Hearty air-dry clay to create striking 3D textures on the focal points. This tactile element draws the viewer's attention, literally and figuratively, to the "symbols" of animals that are central to the work. By bringing these elements into three-dimensional space, Maryanne plays with the idea that what we concentrate on—what we give energy and substance to—manifests in our lives. The interplay of smooth canvas and raised clay invites a deeper contemplation of how our inner focus shapes our external world, embodying the sage's wisdom of mindful attention.
This technique is something Maryanne is keen to explore further, eager to see just how far she can push the boundaries of texture and form in her future works.