Maura Jean Harvey

Artist Statement

My work pays homage to women, diverse cultures, and historical moments.

I use varied and multi-dimensional mixed media; oil and acrylic combine at times with orphan jewelry, fabric, embroidered pieces, and found objects. In my series on women, I cast light on women from around the world and honor them as queens. Landscapes are of places I have been.

In my Retablos, I have created a personal version of an ancient altar.
Retablos, or Santero boxes as they were first called, originated in Europe as a type of portable altar, and came to Peru with the Conquistadors in the 16th century.

Each Retablo or Retablito I make focuses on a theme like hope, or love, or simply conveys a positive message. Or, it can be a memory box for a loved person who is gone.

Artifacts incorporated in paintings and Retablos are frequently gifts from family and friends.

Those who have given me objects to use throughout my art share in the creation and energy of the work. My intention is to send a message of shared hope.

Biography

I have maintained an art studio since 2002 and have collaborated with world artists, from China, France and Turkey. I studied collage in Aix-en -Provence. My art show in Istanbul in a Byzantine cistern in 2014 was exciting! I have held shows in California, in the Buena Vista Adobe, the Encinitas Community Center, the Fairfax Library, the San Anselmo Library, in Carmel Valley, and in Tecate, Mexcio.

My artwork pays homage to women, diverse cultures, lands I have visited and historical moments.

I use varied and multi-dimensional mixed media; oil and acrylic combine at times with orphan jewelry, fabric, embroidered pieces, and found objects. In my series on women,med.

In my Retablos, I have created a personal version of an ancient altar.

Devotion to poetry brought about publication in many anthologies and several awards over the years. I have served on the California State Poetry Society Board since 1999. I jave piblished three books and my collection of art and poetry, Color Recuerdo, was featured at Copperfield’s Book in San Rafael in October, 2024, when I presented a poetry reading there.

I frequently incorporate lines of my poems or poetic phrases in my Retablos and paintings. Inspiration comes and the word and art flow.

Art Medium(s)

Oil Paint, Acrylic Paint, Mixed Media, Fiber