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At 4 years old, I fell in love at first sight. My mother had taken my brother and me to the Metropolitan Museum of Art, where I first encountered Rembrandt. His art took my breath away while filling my mind with inspiration and awe. The piece was "Aristotle Contemplating on the Bust of Homer". It was the biggest and most majestic painting I'd ever seen. I remember feeling completely lifted by it, thinking this is what I want to do. This is what I want to be, an Artist.

My journey toward becoming an artist started with a BFA in Studio Arts and Fine Arts from New York University, and an apprenticeship with my Professor, Hyper Realist Artist John Kacere. 

I am married and we have 3 sons. Twenty two years ago, my son was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder/ADHD. I temporarily put my career aside and dove headfirst into research to reveal everything I could to make a difference for my son and other people who are neurodivergent. Early on, I co-created and co-directed Autism Resource Fairs with another mother who shared my passion, and whose child was also diagnosed with Autism. As my son grew, art became a learning tool in addition to a creative outlet. I broke down history and literature lessons into visual content he could relate to. Art was the vehicle that drove a multitude of lessons home. 

My leave was further extended when my mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer. We moved my parents into our home, where my dad and I took care of her. The years of advocating for my son proved to be invaluable when I had to become my mother’s voice. The therapies I had learned to help him with his sensory and neurological issues, I incorporated into my mom’s routine. My goal was to keep her connected to our world as long as possible. I began to sketch with my mother. Art was a therapeutic conduit for her and a source of enlightenment for me.The state of her mind was documented in colored pencils. Art created data.

I began teaching Art in 2013.  I would travel to my students' homes to work with them. Each student has a unique perspective on and off the canvas. I accommodate each student’s specific needs while creatively meeting their goals as we incorporate their interests.  

Art Calls with Mari is my personally established portfolio that enables connection, education, and creativity to all who wish to expand their knowledge of art. I hope to provide a fun, stress-free environment where we can enjoy the shared experience of artistic endeavors.