Hello 2022

Oh what a feeling, I’m feeling life..

Happy 2022 everyone! Among all the exciting things this year brings, I have BIG NEWS! It’s been a long time coming, and I am thrilled to FINALLY officially announce I am now accepting commissioned art requests! I’ve received numerous inquiries in the past for original custom pieces and am super excited to open up commissions and take on limited requests each year. Thank you to everyone who’s shown love throughout the years whether it’s by your words, attending previous art shows, purchasing prints, or sharing my art for the world to see! I appreciate the love, always. Now you can own your very own original, by me!

From my heART to yours, xo

METAMORPHOSIS

M E T A M O R P H O S I S

Butterflies are deep and powerful representations of change, endurance, hope, and life. They are both fragile and strong. Just like butterflies, we all go through transformation in our lives..⠀⠀⠀⠀

When I was a little girl I would see and play with white butterflies all the time. Then I stopped seeing them for years and years and always wondered what happened to them. During the months in isolation, I began to see a white butterfly every now and again, and it would fly across my path when I’m outside, or if I happen to look out my window one would flutter by in that exact moment! It gave me comfort seeing it, and reminded me of how happy it made me as a child. I was surprised at how frequently I saw the white butterfly the last few months so when I read up on what it symbolizes I started to cry..⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀

Seeing a white butterfly is a sign that you’re about to start a new chapter in your life. (Yes!) It could be a response to your prayers. It can be a sign from heaven — Angels are sent by God to deliver messages. In case you are in a difficult situation, it is reassurance that your angels are going to guide you to get through it and gain a solution. It is a sign of wisdom and spiritual growth. The white butterfly symbolically can indicate you may be trying to connect with your own inner wisdom. It also represents the angelic forces that we hold in our heart. Butterflies are connected to our own internal peace and tranquillity.

The last few months have truly been awakening, and for most of us, it has happened FOR us not to us. It was a matter of staying in that cocoon, crawl, or fly, and I chose to fly. As we adapt to this “new normal” I see a lot of things differently. So much has come to light. Will things ever be the same?⠀⠀⠀⠀

Just like that butterfly, you’ve mastered survival mode, now it’s time to L I V E. Choose to  e v o l v e... Embrace change. Emerge into that beautiful butterfly! 

"All You Need Is Love"

“All You Need Is Love”

I painted the members of The Beatles for my dad's birthday. They’ve always been his fav band (I have him to thank for my love for all genres of music, and for being so musically inclined!) Music is a universal language and it’s my main source of inspiration to create and gets me through everything! Didn’t realize when I finally decided to paint this piece, how it would relate to what is happening in the world today.

We're all going through a challenge, and I think the most important thing is to spread love & positivity. To be honest I've felt a bit confused with waves of anxiety coming and going as if I'm floating in the middle of a movie and reality, but have been smiling through it and trying to spread as much positivity as I can. Although it's a tough time, this forces us to stop and think, reflect, and realize a lot. To do things we've always said we had "no time for”. To appreciate family & loved ones more, have meaningful conversations, check on your friends. To decide on things that may have been teetering in our minds.

There are so many lessons available from this experience. It should challenge you mentally and physically. Don't be afraid to FEEL the blessings in disguise.. Is there anything that needs to change or adapt? Are you happy with what you've been doing and where you’re at currently? Do you like your job? In an odd time of "social distancing" it’ll expose you to YOURSELF. It will test you. This time will show you what matters most, and what doesn't. There is always something to do, someone to reach out to, and time to appreciate who is in your life and what really matters to you NOW.

It's a true test of time. I feel the earth is resetting.. There is discovery in discomfort, and more to gain than lose. I never want to forget the feeling where everything we used to take for granted is now more precious than ever.

Keep going. Keep moving. Keep creating. Pull the trigger on that idea you've always had. Have faith over fear. When this passes, we will come out of this stronger and better human beings for ourselves and for each other. Stay strong and stay healthy! We are all in this together.

Mamba Day

“Mamba Mentality”

"The mindset isn't about seeking a result--it's more about the process of getting to that result. It's about the journey and the approach. It's a way of life. I do think that it's important, in all endeavors, to have that mentality." ~ Kobe Bryant

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After being away from painting for a while, I came back stronger, better, and faster, surprising myself! I craved the feeling so much that I dove right into it, so focused, drawing inspiration from one of the greatest, and I’m so proud of this piece. I named this “Mamba Mentality”, embodying all that goes with the phrase; self-awareness, putting things into action, and putting forth your best at all times. I admire Kobe for this, and have embraced this mindset.

Kobe Bryant is not only a role model and NBA legend, but he has been and continues to be an inspiration for all generations. The reason I chose to paint Kobe running, was to represent the message to keep going, to keep moving forward, and the strive to be better today than you were yesterday. To empower yourself on your journey, and enjoy the moments and process wholeheartedly in your “now” while getting to your “there.” As he said himself, “It’s not the destination, it’s the journey.” and it’s so important to keep this in mind.

This piece for me, symbolizes the great year I’ve had overall, and the journey I’ve traveled to get to where I’m at today, and where I will continue to go. It really comes down to passion and sacrifice. And if you’re dedicated enough, you’ll continue to find yourself amazed at how much you can achieve.

In honor of one of the greatest Kobe Bryant and his day, I have released a Limited Edition of 24 Prints, available now…

"Respect to those who do achieve greatness, and respect to those who are chasing that elusive feeling." ~ Kobe Bryant

"Strength"

“Strength”

“When a man says I cannot, he has made a suggestion to himself. He has weakened his power of accomplishing that which otherwise would have been accomplished.” ~ Muhammad Ali

Your strength will be tested in life — physically, mentally, and emotionally. It’s up to you not to quit and keep your faith, to get to where you want and know you deserve…

The main thing is: go after what you want. The experiences along the way are priceless, and it’s in the challenges where you learn so much more about yourself. It’s in the challenges that should keep you going and in return makes you stronger.

What a journey it’s been since the first day of launching my site 3 years ago! I am blessed and I am feeling grateful for where I am today in heart, body, and spirit.

"Timeless"

"His Airness"

As another year is coming to an end, it's only natural for us to reflect on the year that's passed; our accomplishments as well as obstacles we've overcome, and anticipate what the new year will bring. This specific piece is so special to me, because just like myself, it's been a work in progress all year long.

I worked on this piece when I was happy, I worked on it during moments I felt down, I worked on it at times where I felt lost, I worked on it when I felt accomplished. It has seen my laughter, my tears, followed me through all my achievements, challenges, and milestones; all that contributed to the tremendous amount of growth 2017 had to offer me. This year has shown me how much more strength I had in me I never knew I had, and most importantly shown me all the things I have gained and achieved through hard work and passion. I've learned so much more about myself, and in a way watched my own evolution as the painting progressed. As you can see, this piece symbolizes more than just the external composition. This piece includes pieces of me, all of which we can all relate to. 

I started this piece in the beginning of 2017, and finally decided now, the last month of the year, that it's "finished". I started it, I set it aside for weeks/months at a time, I came back to it, I worked on other pieces in between. When I envision something I want it to be perfect, exactly as I pictured in my head. From the angle of his body to the expression on his face, to the style of jersey.. Every single detail, drawing inspiration from several different reference photos. I don't rush. I can't rush. But if I want something, I make it happen. The process is what makes the value in anything you do even greater, and what better piece to have worked on through the year than that of one of the greatest to ever do it, Michael Jordan. 

Apart from being named one of the greatest basketball players of all time, Michael Jordan has inspired us to allow ourselves to live up to our greatest potential, and the importance of passion. You have to have passion. Passion is what gets you through anything in life. In order to achieve greatness, if you want something bad enough, if you want to be where you dream of being, you work for it every single day. You can't rush greatness, but you have control over how hard you work towards it. 

Here it is, the legendary, greatest of all time, Michael Jordan piece from my "Timeless" Collection. Cheers to always working on being the best versions of ourselves, pushing to greatness, and may we all carry it into the new year. "His Airness" Limited Edition prints are now available. 

"To be the best at anything, you gotta have a certain love for that. To make you overcome all the obstacles that's gonna be thrown in your way. That's what the game of basketball has been for me."

"Skin"

"Skin"

I wanted to come back to my art with something different after being so caught up with my professional life. It's true that every next level of your life demands a different version of you, and I found myself struggling the past couple months in a way where I felt I was constantly being challenged, adapting to a lot of change. With this piece being my biggest painting so far, and most meticulous, I was very excited to share it with you all in hopes you will connect with it and see a deeper meaning than what's on the surface. 

I've been wanting to paint Rihanna for a while now, as I've always admired her unconventional attitude and the way she chooses to live her life. She is iconic, she never conforms to trends, she is her own in all aspects. Despite her tough exterior and attitude, I wanted to portray the real raw her, underneath it all. Simple, minimalistic, just skin, and her eyes piercing right through to your soul.. Relating this to personal challenges I was going through, I think it's important to allow yourself to come undone sometimes and be honest with yourself. Strip yourself bare of all the external things, be grateful and realize what you have within you to free yourself and overcome any challenge, big or small. 

I'm very proud of this piece, and it was a pleasure to unveil it at my second MADE event in Vancouver, "The Galler-Ri", dedicated to all things Rihanna. It was an accomplishment for me, overcoming the battles I faced and to be part of another unforgettable night, surrounded by great vibes and amazing people. Thank you always for the love. 

"Diamond"

"When creative individuals are given a stage they have the power to advance humanity."

Happy Birthday Skateboard P! Here are some of my favourite Pharrell words to live by..

"Wealth is of the heart and mind, not the pocket."

"Don't wait for the stars to align, reach up and rearrange them the way you want. Create your own constellation."

"If you kiss her mind, her body will follow."

"Stay loyal to your creativity because it is a gift."

"Be ready, but be patient."

In honour of Pharrell's birthday, open edition prints are now available!

One Year Anniversary

One Year Anniversary!

“The way you think and the way you see life is unique.. The world needs your voice/ your art.” Thank you to my good friend and mentor for the constant reminder to not let myself be the only thing standing in my way and for telling me then that if it wasn't hard, everyone would do it. It really is the "hard" that makes it great. That's when you grow the most. It’s been both an exciting and challenging journey so far, changing career paths and focusing on my art. I see now that it is so worth it to follow your heart's passion. The time is never going to be right. The present moment is all we have and all that we’re guaranteed. If I never escaped out of my comfort zone I would have missed out on all the opportunities and great experiences that have happened in the last year alone. Following your heart to take the leap is not risky, playing it safe is the real risk. What you’re out here seeking from life is seeking you just as much as you are it. Create an environment for you to receive those blessings. Get comfortable with being uncomfortable in order to be fully happy! That’s what it’s all about.

Today marks the one year anniversary of the launching of my website! It's amazing to think a year has passed already, time really flies when you're having fun! To thank you all for the love and your ongoing support, all prints, Open and Limited Edition, are 15% off now through Sunday with code ONEYEAR15!

Stay Gold

Love,

"Role Models"

Like a flower you are powerful you do something to me..

Happy Spring! 

Selena: Original. Strong. Free-spirited. True.

Frida Kahlo: Raw. Intense. Passionate. Unconventional. 

Angelina Jolie: Sexy. Bold. Fearless. Intelligent.

JLo: Classy. Real. Ambitious. Captivating. 

To celebrate the beginning of Spring and Women's month, the "Role Models" series prints are now available. 

"Worthy"

"Worthy"

J. Cole's music was my go-to through every stage of personal growth. It got me through a lot, giving me inspiration to pick up a pencil and paintbrush again a few years ago. I named this piece "Worthy" with lyrics taken from Crooked Smile written in the background, one verse of many that struck a chord in me. His real and humble attitude, and rare truth behind his lyrics is something that I always admire and his words remind us all about what is really important.

From Young Simba to a King, Happy Birthday to one of the greatest and one of my biggest inspirations. 

"One In A Million"

A queen is not just a title, it is a state of being..

.. People will know, by the way she carries herself.

Happy Birthday to a Queen, a classic woman who carried herself with such grace and style. A natural beauty and so effortlessly sexy, she will always be One In a Million.. 

In honour of Aaliyah's birthday, Open Edition prints are now available.  

MADE

"You don't make art after you become an artist. You become an artist by ceaselessly making art."

With drawing and painting being my passion and necessity in my life, I am so grateful for the doors it's opened for me and that I'm able to do what I love while inspiring others along the way. Not only has it lead to my first art exhibits this year, but it has allowed me to connect with so many amazing people. Hearing how much one can connect with a certain piece, or that I've inspired someone to take a step into pursuing something, knowing I've touched someone's life through my work is the most rewarding and fulfilling feeling.

I want to thank everybody who came out to support and show love at my first Vancouver art exhibit! With a few days left of the year, it was such a great way to pave the path into the new year to come. I will continue to create art from my heart and I'm excited to see how much growth will happen, what I'll create, and where the next year will take me. I'm thankful for the blessings I've received, the continuous love and support all around, and for the beautiful words you've all given me thus far. Much love, and a happy and fulfilling new year to all.  

Open Edition mini posters now available

"Classic Cali I"

Classic Cali

Have you ever had moments where you ask yourself, "If I didn't choose to do that, I never would have experienced this." or "I would've never had this"? It's so simple yet so amazing how one decision can change everything.

This piece was inspired by Summer 2016 where I took a leap and made decisions that pushed myself even more out of my comfort zone, and it happened to be one of the best summers I've had. This piece relates to that because it was the first piece I created with more than one subject, taking on a new challenge, and looking at it I feel it holds memories of the classic LA summer that passed, where new growth, gratitude, and inspiration was formed.

I think life is all about taking that leap, to just go for it. I feel a lot of people live life with a mindset, “if I play it safe, I’ll live forever.” Whether you take the chance or not, no one gets out of here alive so you might as well do what’s important to you and what you love. Scare yourself, colour outside the lines, have gratitude, and really live.

Because today is Snoop Dogg's birthday, Open Edition prints of this classic trio are now available.

"The Rose That Grew From Concrete"

The Rose That Grew From Concrete

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"The Rose That Grew From Concrete" is such a powerful poem, one that resonated with me at a young age, and has become one of my favourites. In honour of Tupac's birthday this Thursday I want to share this very special piece that holds a deep sentimental meaning to me, with all of you.

We are all roses from concrete. Each and every one of us has experienced our own personal struggle, big or small, whether it be physical, mental or emotional and I feel that everyone can relate to the symbolism in this piece. The paintings shown below were done a little bit over a year apart. The original piece is shown on the left, which was also the first painted portrait that I did. Just like in life, the difference between the two paintings is proof of how much growth can happen even in just one year. 

On a more deeper personal level, the reason I recreated this piece is because it is a representation and metaphor for my own life in many ways. Every year when another birthday passes, naturally we reflect on our own growth. Because Tupac's birthday is two days before my own I can't help but look at this piece and acknowledge how far I've come not only as an artist but as a person, spiritually, and intellectually. All decisions I've made with my heart have gotten me to where I am today. This painting serves as a constant reminder for myself to focus on my dreams and not to let anyone or anything stop me from achieving them, while always staying true to who I am. 

I want this piece to encourage being unconventional, to symbolize ambition, perseverance, and strength most of all. Believe in yourself and have passion always. Have faith you have it in you to push, rise, and bloom. Surprise yourself. Keep those dreams and make them happen. 

I dedicate this piece to all you roses..

Happy Birthday to the King

"Purple & Gold"

"Dearly beloved, we are gathered here today to get through this thing called life"  ~ Prince

As a tribute to the late, great Prince on his 58th birthday, I decided to call this piece "Purple & Gold" as these two colours symbolize his whole being perfectly.

While working on this piece listening to classic Prince tracks and doing some reflecting, I felt as though I transferred a lot of my own emotion to it, giving this piece even more sentimental value for myself. Prince radiated positive vibes, and I want this piece to do the same, while representing freedom, confidence, passion, and love.

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Purple: the colour most often associated with royalty, magic, mystery, and piety. 
Represents meanings of wealth; extravagance, creativity, dignity, devotion, and peace.
Gold: the colour associated with higher ideals, wisdom, understanding and enlightenment. Illuminates richness and warmth, inspires knowledge, spirituality and deep understanding of the self and the soul..

...

May Prince's legacy live on..

"Heart of Gold"

Happy Birthday to The Rock!

A homage to a man whose physical strength is equal to the depth of his humble heart. A man who remains focused on what's important in life, who's true to himself and who chooses to enlighten and inspire millions of people everyday. 
Because there's nothing sexier than a man who's strong, smart, funny as hell, and inspiring all in one. I admire a man of class, but who isn't afraid to get messy. A man full of passion and integrity who holds his morals and beliefs close to his heart; who knows who he is, what he wants, and is driven and committed to himself, his mission in life, his family, and his values. I dedicate this to a man whose actions speak louder than words, the man with a heart of gold.

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I painted this piece in January, excited at the thought of a new year with a new outlook and goals to be accomplished. I thought he was the perfect example and true motivation to take risks, work hard for what you want, and transform your dreams into reality. Since then, I have accomplished many little short-term goals I set for myself, that got me closer to achieving the bigger long-term ones. Thank you to The Rock for inspiring me to get out of my comfort zone, for exposing my artwork internationally, and for being an amazing role model and human being.

March 2016 ~ Welcome

Welcome to the Art of Marianne!

I’m excited to finally have my site up, it’s been long overdue! I want to share a short story behind the first two prints I will be releasing, and what they symbolize. J. Cole and James Franco have been two of my biggest inspirations for many different reasons, my first portraits, and every time I look at these pieces it is a reminder that if you strongly believe in something, you can make it happen.  
 
After years of focusing on school and work, I felt like something was missing. Being my favourite hip hop artist, I remember always listening to J. Cole’s music. I was going through extreme stages of personal growth and the rare realness and truth in his lyrics got me through a lot, allowing me to express myself by putting it on paper. Beginning with drawing and working my way back to painting, I went back to the love that I neglected. He was my first portrait and I believe that it led me to finally meet him a few years ago.

I planned to spontaneously visit San Francisco to see J. Cole on tour. I brought my sketchbook in my purse, hoping and wishing! I had the opportunity to meet his photographer, who I’ve remained close friends with and is a continuous source of inspiration and mentor for me. He remembered coming across my Cole piece through Instagram! I pulled out my sketchbook and showed him the drawing again, then asked if I could show it to J. Cole and that was that! I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to talk with him about music, which songs of his that really got through to me, and to show my appreciation and thanks in person. That was probably the greatest show I will ever see, and the feelings and memories that came with it I will never forget! 

That same month I met James Franco, who was filming his latest movie in my city. The casting director had asked my previous modeling agency if I was available to work one night for a scene so I decided to bring my sketchbook. Someone had mentioned to him that they had seen my drawing and that day I had the opportunity to work with him, to see how hilarious and so raw he was in person, and to see his reaction to seeing his drawn portrait! Admiring him since I was 10 years old, it’s still so unbelievable looking back.

There is nothing more priceless than the feeling I get seeing my muses’ appreciation for my art. It’s like a piece of my heart to theirs. Seeing first-hand that they are everything behind all the reasons why they are my biggest inspirations is engraved in my heart. I never would have thought that I’d meet my number one inspirations, in the same month, and through my artwork! That was truly a dream come true and since then I believed it was a sign, that somehow I was manifesting my destiny. 

With that being said, I want to thank each and every one of you for supporting me on this journey and for giving me inspiration. I will be releasing a limited series of each of my pieces one by one, and this April I will have both of these pieces available for you as my story unfolds through my art… 

Love,