mary newham

ABOUT MARY:

Painter of Place & Atmosphere | Equestrian Observer | Storyteller of the Yarra Valley

A long-time resident of the Yarra Valley, Mary Newham’s work is a heartfelt celebration of the landscape she calls home. Working predominantly en plein air, Mary sets up her canvas, easel, and oil paints outdoors — capturing the ever-changing effects of season, weather, and light in a painterly and realistic style that honours both subject and setting.

Her deep connection to place has led to numerous landscape commissions, offering her the privilege of painting on private and often breathtaking properties across the region. Mary is also commissioned to paint horses, animals, and special places that may only be accessed through photographic reference — approaching each subject with care and sensitivity.

In addition to oil painting, Mary’s creative practice includes pastel and ink equestrian studies, acrylic landscapes, watercolour travel diaries, portraiture, and collage. Whether working from life or memory, her aim is always to create art that captures the essence of her subject while remaining accessible and evocative to the viewer.

Since retiring from a career in secondary art education, Mary has immersed herself in her studio practice. Her mudbrick studio in the rural landscape of Gruyere provides a peaceful base for making, teaching, and connecting with the creative community through exhibitions, Open Studios, and the broader Yarra Valley Arts network.

Medium: Painting, Collage
Tags: Oil, Acrylic, Pastel, Watercolour, Ink, Equestrian, Portraits, Impressionist, Realistic, Landscape Commissions, Animal Portraits, Yarra Valley