Shelley Marie is an abstract painter from Frederick, Maryland. She is a Visual Artist with a Master of Fine Arts Degree in Painting from American University (study abroad, full term in Italy), as well as a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Studio Art and a minor in Interdisciplinary Dance from Pennsylvania University. Shelley has exhibited nationally and internationally, as well as collaborating with fellow artist and students. Such professional participation has included assuming the responsibilities of an instructor, exhibiter, performance and collaborative artist, personal assistant, exhibition curator, designer and installer. Shelley has seven years experience working for the National Gallery of Art in Washington, DC.

Marie’s work draws inspiration from an exploration of medical restoration and environmental survival. It is a fascination over the body’s ability to heal and adapt to the unpredictable: the indifferent forces of nature, the fragility of man, and the reliance on medical intervention. Marie’s 2015 exhibitions examine these concepts through a survey of recent abstract paintings and drawings that most suitably display her struggle with medical problems, trauma and loss. Survival can be disastrous, but it can also be revitalizing.

During her free time she volunteers at the Animal Welfare League of Frederick as a foster caretaker. Her other passions include advocacy for the prevention against domestic violence, promotion for animal refuge, performance art, modern dance and classical ballet.