My name is Marie Jensen and thanks for visiting my web site.

I was born and have lived most of life in the Northwest.  I am one of those people who loves big evergreen trees, gray skies and rain.  When I spent a few years on Maui, I realized how much the changing of the seasons and all the things associated with them meant to me.  I am inspired by falling leaves, snow showers and the return of spring flowers.  Having a dog to walk takes me outdoors all year round.

My work is also informed by the times in which I grew up.  As a child in the innocent fifties and a teenager in the wild sixties; I've seen a lot of changes but return to those times for inspiration.  Seeing people spending all their time in front of little screens makes me cringe.  I can't help but feel that they're missing out and I use the phrase "I remember when…" way too often.

Also, it goes without saying that books and music are a big part of my inspiration.

I love to use words or symbols in my work - Reactions to symbols especially are so automatic and visceral.  Even associations made with particular colors are so much a part of who we are.  I am fascinated that the colors and symbols that we use in the Western World can have completely different meanings in other parts of the world.

The work of other artists is always informative and inspirational.  Some of the artists I enjoy are Helen Frankenthaler. Mark Rothko, Jackson Pollock and Paul Klee.  Anything from that Abstract Expressionist period speaks to me.  I also love "folk art" or "outsider" art - a trip to the House of Blues in Vegas or the Smithsonian in DC is well worth it.

I currently live with my wonderful husband, dog and cat in Tacoma, Washington on the edge of a gulch full of fir trees, maples, squirrels and raccoons.  I make art to stay sane.

- Marie Jensen