The Little Butterfly I

Mary Shaw was born in Bristol, where she still resides today. An entirely self- taught artist, she demonstrated an aptitude for painting from childhood, and completed her first commission at the age of just thirteen. As an adult, she spent four years living in Zimbabwe and Cape Town, where she began to establish herself as a professional artist. On returning to the UK, Mary rediscovered her affection for the English countryside, having been struck by the vastly differing landscapes of her two homes. She was particularly interested in the rare and endangered species found amongst England's hedgerows, and began to depict them in her paintings. Created using a variety of media, Mary's beautiful pieces have a delicate touch which seem to enchant all fortunate enough to encounter them. Loosely- painted organic foregrounds contrast with areas of exquisite detail; often a butterfly, kingfisher or field mouse is found nestled within the flowers.