*****This giveaway is now closed. The winner has been notified via email. Thank you to all who entered!******
A few months ago I discovered Maren Devine Art and was immediately smitten. I added one of Maren’s abstract prints to my powder room and just love it so much! Today I’m absolutely thrilled to be featuring Maren Devine and her beautiful art! Maren was gracious enough to do a little interview with me so we could all get to know a bit more about the artist behind the work. She’s also generously giving away a $150 shop credit to one lucky winner and a 10% off discount code for Our Fifth House readers! But first let’s meet the artist!
(Roses)
1. Did you study art in school?
Yes! I have Bachelor of Fine Arts from Texas State in beautiful San Marcos, Texas. I especially loved figure drawing and painting.
2. When did you first pick up a paint brush? Have you always loved painting?
When I was a junior in high school my Dad-a minister – got a call from New Orleans to Dallas. It was culture shock to say the least, and my older brothers stayed behind. So it was not an easy time. Thankfully God stepped in and I had this fabulous art teacher named Mrs. Boone who made it all so interesting.
I love this! My mom always says art heals, and I couldn’t agree more. And a great teacher is worth their weight in gold!
3. Do you have any other creative passions? Cooking? Jewelry making? Any other creative hobbies?
I WISH I was talented at music or writing. I do love interior design and books, though.
4. What does a typical work day look like for you?
Most days I paint and then do all the things you do with high school kids. I like to listen to music when I paint!
5. What inspires your work? Where do you find inspiration?
I find inspiration in so many things. My Mom always inspired me as she could sew or make or paint just about anything, and my Dad always encouraged my drawing so I try to keep drawing and I love blogs, magazines, fashion and the whole area of color trends. There is an aisle in Target where you can always find the top colors that are about to become popular – I find that fascinating – color marketing. Of course I love the work of artists like Matisse, John Singer Sargent, Picasso and Van Gogh to name a few. I am inspired by kind people, too.
(Impressionist Abstract Floral)
6. Do you have favorite works? Is it ever hard to sell or let go of a painting?
Lately the human figure has been an inspiration; and since I grew up in Florida and Louisiana I love the watery marshes. There is no sadness when I send them off because it really makes me happy to know someone felt a connection or a happiness to make them want it!
7. What does your studio look like?
My “studio” is actually my garage that I have taken over; and it pretty much looks like a paint bomb has exploded – although it is organized chaos. My dream would be to have a pretty studio!
8. Tell us a little about yourself.
My husband convinced me to start painting full-time a few years ago. We have 2 teenage daughters and our oldest is going to college this year so we are both happy and sad about that! We have a relatively quiet miniature schnauzer named Rosie.
I knew I liked Maren……After finding out she’s a mini-schnauzer owner I love her! 😉
9. Have you always sold your paintings? When/how did you turn your art into a business?
I have been selling paintings for years but only full time for the last few. I used to do art shows with my sister and we sold paintings and some small painted furniture.
10. What are three random things you’re loving right now?
Lately that would be HGTV Magazine, Mexican Dresses, and light pink nail polish!
I’ve been loving light pink polish lately too!
Thank you so much Maren for taking the time to answer these questions! It was so great getting to know more about you and what inspires your creativity!
Maren sells her original paintings on canvas as well as prints on paper or canvas. With a variety of styles, sizes and price points her shop truly has something for everyone!
(Floral Abstract Print on Paper – $25)
(Flamingo Abstract Print – $25)
Today she’s generously giving away a $150 shop credit to one lucky Our Fifth House reader! To enter simply visit Maren Devine’s art shop then come back to comment below telling me about your favorite piece/s. The giveaway will be open until next Wednesday, and the winner will be notified by email. But we’re all winners today because Maren is also generously offering a 10% off discount code for Our Fifth House readers good for an entire month! Use code ourfifthhouse10 to take 10% off your total order!
****Update! I recently added the mini schnauzer print to my daughter’s room! Absolutely love!!!
Beautiful. My favorites are abstract church and modern country painting. I have been thinking about adding abstract artwork to our home because currently it is a tad too traditional.