Born in a small town in Queens, New York, Mary Gulino knew from an early age that art was her passion.  As a young artist she enjoyed all forms of art and at age 14, discovered leather craft.  She set up a booth at school and at a shop near her family’s summer home, where her made-to-order crafts were a huge hit.  As a teenager and into her twenties, she continued to explore all forms of art and began to learn the finer techniques of photography.

In 1996, after a serious car accident, Mary moved to Arizona where she pursued her passion further.  In 2000, she graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Intermedia at Arizona State University, receiving the Summa Cum Laude honor with a 4.0 GPA.

Mary began her career as an art and photography instructor at the leisure education level in early 2002, teaching on-going and one-day workshops.  She provides instruction in all mediums, including acrylic, oil, water-based oil, and watercolor paint, as well as drawing (pencil, pen and ink, and pastel).  She has a keen eye for color, design, and perspective, and incorporates these important elements into each lesson.

Mary started teaching photography at a time when most people were still shooting film.  As the digital photography revolution unfolded, she gradually transitioned her workshops into the digital realm.  As a result, in 2006, Mary introduced Photoshop Elements into her repertoire of workshops. 

Mary is loved by her students who attend her various workshops, many of whom have been continuous-repeat students, some for as long as seven years.  She conducts her workshops in a casual, relaxed, friendly, family-like environment, which encourages students to return.  She enjoys working with artists at all levels of experience and expertise, from beginner to seasoned artist.  Mary encourages her students to experiment with different styles and mediums and challenges experienced painters to explore new ways to express their creative voices. Artists are encouraged to expand upon their current levels of understanding and become more comfortable applying new techniques to their work.  The relaxed atmosphere that she creates can help you reawaken your inner muse and discover your creative potential.

"Many years ago, there was a movie called ‘To Sir With Love.’ This note is about ‘To Mary With Love.’ In the title song, it says, 'how do you take someone from childhood... to perfume.'  For me, you have taken me from a blank white canvas to something creative.  You have guided me kindly with your knowledge of color and form. Your instructions are always precise and accurate.  You have opened a whole new world   for me and for that, I am extremely grateful."     ~ Marcia W., Scottsdale, AZ

Having a strong knowledge of good design elements, including perspective and color, Mary approaches her work intuitively.  The pure act of painting and mixing colors feeds her soul.  She looks at the blank canvas like a chunk of marble, waiting for its true beauty to emerge from within.  Mary’s vibrant paintings portray a great sense of excitement about life.  This enthusiasm, captured on canvas, exhibits a visual energy and vibration that stimulates the senses.  Her hope is to pass this excitement on, for her art to be enjoyed in living spaces as well as work environments, and to inspire and elevate all those who bear witness to it.