ARTIST BIO
Mary Beth Izard
Mary Beth Izard’s impressionistic oil and acrylic paintings capture the beauty and ambiance of nature, frequently adding enigmatic artistic elements or figures to invite the viewer to imagine the story the scene depicts. “Storied Landscape Art” is the term she uses to describe much of her art.
Initially Mary Beth used the medium of alcohol ink to create abstract art. Later, as she became interested in impressionistic art, she found switching to oils and acrylics provided her the control, vibrancy and versatility she sought. Now “abstracted” landscapes are a favorite focus for her work.
At first glance, art appears to be a major departure from Mary Beth’s formal education (MBA) and work of 25 years as a college professor of entrepreneurship, instructing others, both in the classroom and through her books, on how to identify their passion and launch and grow businesses. Following the conclusion of her career as a professor and consultant, she began painting with a friend as a hobby. Later in her quest to develop her skills, Mary Beth enrolled in numerous art courses and workshops, including ones conducted by artists Connie Mowe, Bob Byerley, Ada Koch, and Marty Pyle.
Based in Overland Park, Kansas, Mary Beth’s frequent travels throughout the US and abroad provide the inspiration for much of her work, which has been shown at the 2010 Art Gallery, the Jones Gallery, Leawood Arts Show, Images Art Gallery and InterUrban ArtHouse. Her art can also be found on her website at www.mbizard.com
ARTIST STATEMENT
Specializing in Impressionistic landscape Art
There is nothing more beautiful than a setting sun, a mountain peak, or a babbling brook. Utilizing nature’s magnificent settings, my impressionistic landscape and figurative oil paintings are designed to inspire the viewer to imagine the story the painting tells.
Art was a passion I rediscovered later in life, after spending 25 years as a professor of Entrepreneurship. As a child I liked to draw but without academic opportunities or role models, I had limited occasions to pursue this interest. I chose a “practical” degree in college, business education, and later went on to earn an MBA and teach college.
Although not actively engaged in art during my career, I was drawn to the more creative aspects of my work. I authored a college entrepreneurship text and collaborated on numerous entrepreneurship books, instructional materials, and workshops. I also authored the book, BoomerPreneurs, How Baby Boomers Can Start Their Own Business, Make Money, and Enjoy Life.
Several years ago my creative flame was reignited when I participated in an art and wine class, which let to my deciding to enroll in my first painting class. Subsequent courses and workshops taught by artists Connie Mowe, Bob Byerly, Ada Koch and Marty Pyle, to name a few, enabled me to hone my skills and develop my style.
Utilizing oils or acrylics on canvas, I paint in my home studio and at the InterUrban Arthouse. I live in the Kansas City area with my husband, Jack.