Mary Byerly Photo
I’m an illustrator and surface pattern designer based in northwest Indiana. While I hold a degree in Computer Graphic Design, most of my artistic journey has been self-taught. I also enjoy painting with watercolor, acrylic, and oil, which I find both relaxing and fulfilling.
Art has always been a constant in my life. I remember watching my mother and grandmother sew my clothes, crochet, and embroider. Their stashes of fabrics in every imaginable color and pattern left a lasting impression on me, sparking my love for design. As a teen, I took a sewing class and began making my own clothes on my mom's sewing machine. My mother, a skilled seamstress, would take me fabric shopping, where I would dream of the perfect material for my next project.
Travel has also shaped my creative perspective. I've been fortunate to explore diverse places, from the Casbahs of Tangier and the Costa del Sol in Spain to Montego Bay in Jamaica, Mazatlán in Mexico, and across Canada, from Prince Edward Island to Banff, Alberta. My father’s love for road trips took our family to nearly every state in the U.S. as well. I’ve lived in Illinois, Arizona, Florida, Virginia, and now Indiana, and these experiences have broadened my view of the world. I believe life is full of wonder, whether you're exploring faraway places or simply stepping out into your own backyard—there’s beauty to be found everywhere.
Nature is my primary source of inspiration. I’m drawn to the organic shapes and vibrant colors I encounter on walks through different seasons. Whether it’s tiny flowers peeking through a forest floor or a colorful garden in bloom, these moments inspire me to capture their essence in my work. I enjoy experimenting with colors and shapes and finding joy in creating repeating patterns that fit together like puzzle pieces. My goal is to bring a sense of joy to others through my designs, drawing from my life’s experiences and love for color.
Thank you for taking the time to explore my art.
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