Mary Werner Wichita Kansas Art

As Director of Visual Arts at Newman University, Werner believes "the rewards of teaching are great. It gives me a continued opportunity to share my enthusiasm for thinking creatively with students who are just starting the investigation of making art in a serious way." As a professional artist she is active in exhibiting regionally and maintaining a studio. Her current work is part of a continued investigation of her own peculiar view of the world through the window of the dress: one of self-respect and humor. Werner has displayed her work in more than three dozen exhibitions, including numerous solo shows, throughout the state of Kansas since 1993. An instructor of visual arts since 1996, she joined Newman in 2003 after a teaching appointment at Wichita State University. Her academic and community service have included special projects with Arts Partners, Kansas Art Commission, and American Culture Association.

Artist Statement

My current work is part of a continued investigation of my own peculiar view of the world through the window of the dress.

The work deals with images from nature in a nexus with the animated form of the dress, incorporating flat and patterned qualities that create a timeless space. I have investigated this path in two and three dimensional work using actual clothing items sculpting and gluing and screwing these items to canvas, working in charcoal, watercolor, and pastel as well as oil on canvas.

Clothing as subject continues to be a reoccurring theme not only in my own investigation but also by artists around the world. The use of clothing to tell a story, document an important event or make a political statement continues to stir my thoughts and interests in exploring this theme from my own sensibility.

My process begins with a sentiment that I want to build upon. I gather resources and perhaps create a collage or a sketch, but sometimes I am ready to move directly to the canvas and let the process unfold.

When visiting museums I am inspired by the displays of clothing items used not only in an artistic way but also in an historical context. I collect clothing items like one hires a model, and keep fabric samples as part of my resource file. The finished work is often colorful and makes a unique connection to its title.

The dress paintings are an expression of this collective experience; a manifestation of how strong the connection is in the dialogue of social image and personal message.

Exhibitions and related activity