In his new paintings, the artist uses a direct approach and vivid, illuminating colors, illustrating the balance of nature between vitality of our rich world and another worldliness. His creatures, mainly animal motifs taken directly from his mind and influenced by different periods of art history, from Egyptian motifs to ancient Mayan forms, enter into an intense dialogue with one another. The creatures cease to be merely symbols of their human counterparts and the roles they play; and instead—through the truly personal convictions of the artist—capture something deeply universal.

From the artist’s statement.

Technically, more collage than paintings, I paint on polyester film, cut out shapes, and then arrange them on a painted surface. This allows me to interact with the “object.” It is a spontaneous and collaborative process. This way of working, gives me the chance to be responsive to the random things that happen in the process of gluing and cutting, to tap into my internal rhythms and way of being.

From the artist’s statement.

Mary Zeran, Green River, 2017, acrylic and Dura-Lar on paper, 30×22 in.