Artist Profile: Mary Oros

Mary Oros is a sculptor whose primary medium is concrete. "A lot of people say cement," she says. "But cement is just a part of my mix."

Oros segued into working with concrete after working with plaster in art school. "Plaster is such a versatile medium," she said, "but I felt I needed a stronger medium, because I wanted my work to be able to go outside. … I've got a little more freedom with concrete."

She is most inspired by sculptor Martin Puryear. "I am in love with Martin Puryear's work. I just think his work is incredible. … His forms are just gorgeous. I also have a lot of respect for Noguchi, Brancusi, Giacometti. …These people. Their craftsmanship is flawless. I think that's really important in making art."

Oros has been living and working in Benicia for four years. She was drawn here by "this amazing artist community, the incredible studios spaces and the safe environment." After spending 13 years working in west Oakland she was ready for a change.

She said "so many artists are being pushed out by development and increasing rent rates. … The community here is really unusual and I'm very grateful to be here."

When asked  what she does when she isn't making art, she laughs. "Eating. Sleeping. Almost 100 percent of my time is spent in my studio," where she works on marketing and making her art. She pauses for a moment before a grin spreads across her face. "And I go to the occasional art opening."

"I want to make work that makes people happy.  There's so much art that is in your face, political statements. All you need to do is turn on the news for that. I think it's important to look at the good, even if there is so much bad."

Oros' work is currently included in the As They See It exhibition at California State University Sacramento's University Library Gallery. Her work can be also purchased at the Gardener in Healdsburg, as well as at her studio at 991 Tyler Street.