[Mara Schasteen]

Good day. I am very honored to be a juried member of this forum. I was approved almost a year ago, and I was so thrilled to begin posting paintings for critique and to become an active member of the forum. Within days of becoming a member, we had a sudden family tragedy that pulled my heart away from the studio for a while. So, this is finally my moment to introduce myself.

My name is Mara. I have been a quiet associate member of this forum since 2002, posting a few pieces here and there over the years, but mostly devoting my life to raising my children. My husband Ryan has been very instrumental in helping me pursue my dream of being a full time professional portrait and landscape painter. He has made it possible for me to be a mother of 3 young children (plus one on the way!) while at the same time brushing up on my skills and getting my work out there for others to enjoy.

As I indicated before, the last year has produced a scarce few portraits out of my studio, but I plan continue my work and grow as much as possible in the years to come.

The attached work is my latest portrait, begun last summer, and completed earlier this year after a 6 month break. Title: "Lost in Imagination." Dimensions: 36" x 48."

Thanks!
Mara Schasteen