Meet Marie Gray

Today we’d like to introduce you to Marie Gray.

Marie, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I can’t remember a time I wasn’t doodling or coloring something when I was growing up, I believe my love of art came about when a friend of the family showed me portrait sketches she was doing in her art classes. I was intrigued and inspired by what I saw and wanted to learn how to capture someone’s character or essence like she had. I transferred from a private school to the local high school, where I started taking art classes to learn more about art. I wouldn’t be doing what I am doing today if it wasn’t for my high school art teacher and her guidance. Growing up in a small town, I didn’t have many prospects after graduation, so I decided to sign up at the nearest college for some art classes.

My degree took several years and several different schools but all the people I met on my journey had a great impact on my life. I got my associate’s degree working and commuting from my hometown, then transferred to do one semester at Evangel University in Missouri, where I found my direction in art. I wanted to paint a seemingly insignificant moment that evokes great emotion for those that see it. My faith has always been a foundation for my artwork, both in subject matter and the titles I give them. I transferred to and completed my BFA at Midwestern State University in Wichita Falls, TX. We have been in the DFW area now over three years, where I have been working full time with my artwork and love the wonderful artist’s groups that I am a part of.

Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Life definitely had its struggles growing up, but that is what makes us who we are. I was raised in a very conservative Mennonite family so art let alone school was not common for a female. My mom always encouraged my love of art and was my greatest supporter. She passed away after my sophomore year in college that was obviously a very difficult time for me, but I wanted to complete my degree for her as much as for myself. I continue to hold fast to the faith she instilled in me growing up and I try to honor her in my work.

Marie Gray Fine Art – what should we know? What do you do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
I paint using watercolor, oil and acrylic paint, I paint large bright representational paintings. I paint commissions for people that include a variety of subjects but I am mostly known for my paintings of horses and people. I try to capture a moment or memory to tell a story and I am always challenging myself and trying to learn new ways of improving my work. I believe what sets me apart is my attention to detail and my desire to capture the soul of the subject in the eyes of the subject.

What is “success” or “successful” for you?
Success is defined by the type of person you are, honor, integrity, the people you surround yourself with. I have set professional goals to keep challenging my work by entering harder higher level art shows. Goals and Criteria I have set for my art personally is to make sure I push myself and keep learning to improve my work, I learn something new with every piece I paint.

Contact Info:

• Email: mariengray1@gmail.com
• Instagram: marie_grays_fine_art
• Facebook: Marie Gray’s Fine Art

Image Credit:
Lauren Pinson

Getting in touch: VoyageDallas is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.