We recently connected with Mary Beth Downs and have shared our conversation below.

Mary Beth, appreciate you joining us today. When did you first know you wanted to pursue a creative/artistic path professionally?

After teaching my first class I knew I wanted to make this my profession.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I started painting 49 years ago. After a number of years learning from private art teachers I enrolled at the University of Minnesota Duluth, graduating with honors with a BFA in Fine Arts. After graduation I started The Art Cellar where, for the last 29 years, I teach 5 classes of adult students each week. I also teach workshops in Minnesota Wisconsin and Florida. My paintings have been exhibited in galleries an shows in Minnesota and have been awarded professional level first place ribbons.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

The most rewarding aspect of my teaching is when my students become independent artists. I want the to have their own style and not paint like me. I tell new students that I will teach them the skills they need to enjoy painting.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

I never took art in high school, I thought it was for the talented kids. After many years, with the encouragement from my husband, I signed up for some art classes. It opened up a whole new world to me and eventually allowed me to share my love of painting with others. Art is a journey not a destination. I learned to see things differently with greater depth.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.artcellarduluth.com
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php? id=100057203810578
• Other: email artcellarduluth@gmail.com