Mary Crenshaw


My work embraces the beauty of imperfection and the role of chance in creation. Guided by instinct and the inherent properties of my materials, I allow the process itself to shape the outcome. Working across various mediums, my practice is deeply influenced by Eastern philosophical concepts, particularly those relating to force and energy. Drawing on the ideas of Sinologist François Jullien, I engage with the notion that, in contrast to Western ideas of a soul, Chinese thought emphasizes a vital, distinctive life-force. This perspective informs my approach, where flexibility, awareness, and the cultivation of energy are central themes.

Ultimately, my aim is to transmit a sense of dynamic energy and presence, inviting the viewer to engage with the work not just intellectually, but viscerally—encouraging a deeper, more intuitive connection to the forces at play in the world around us.