Arts & Entertainment
Artist of the Month: Mary Jo Kehne
Catonsville artist's work has appeared throughout the state, the Midwest and in New York.
Mary Jo (MJ) Kehne is a local artist whose focus is in art therapy. The 57-year-old, who hails from Baltimore, discusses her education, life in Catonsville and a surprising art medium.
Catonsville Patch: How did you decide to live in Catonsville?
Mary Jo (MJ) Kehne: A year after my father passed away, my mother and I decided it would benefit us both if we bought a house together. After visiting Catonsville and one look at [an] old Catonsville house, we knew it would be ours.
Do you have any formal art education?
Kehne: A Bachelor’s degree in art education from Towson State College in 1975, an MFA from Maryland Institute College of Art in 1983, followed by graduate study in art therapy from the University of New Mexico.
What medium do you currently use to create art?
Kehne: I have used ball-point pens for over 20 years. It is very convenient, enjoyable, and I think a bit addictive! I also enjoy oil pastel, and oil painting. Collage is getting rather interesting to do lately.
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Who or what influenced you to become an artist?
Kehne: I remember always enjoying making art as a child. My art teacher at Landsdowne High School, Adrian Counihan, was probably my first supporter.
Who or what is the biggest influence in your artwork?
Kehne: I have had a couple painting teachers in undergraduate and graduate classes who provided much guidance in my work. For many years I struggled with the subject in my painting and drawing. Introduction to Art Therapy course encouraged image making to come from the soul or psyche rather than mostly my intellect. My inner landscape greatly expanded.
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Who's an artist that influenced you?
Kehne: The palette and simplication of subject in the work of Georgia O’Keeffe has held a long-term fascination for me. Many modern expressionists are favorites.
What do you like about being in Catonsville?
Kehne: The people are very friendly and interesting. Recently the Catonsville Artists Guild and We Love Catonsville have made Catonsville an exciting place to be an artist.
Where has your art been shown?
Kehne: Throughout Maryland, some in the Midwest and in a couple of shows in New York.
What do you do as your "day job"?
Kehne: I am an art therapist supervisor at Clifton T. Perkins Hospital. It is a state maximum security psychiatric hospital. I have been there close to 23 years. I hope to retire soon and devote much more time to being an artist.
