MARA DE MEIS
pORTFOLIO
This project embodies patterns and natural forms, where people and places become a living landscape, honored and reimagined. Everything I do somehow goes back to curved and natural forms without me even realizing. I feel grounded analyzing patterns that don’t appear uniform-once I dig deeper, I start to see the rhythm and purpose behind them. I seek out patterns in my life subconsciously, interpreting feelings, memories and places into form.
Creating a bridge between patterns, I notice how forms look alike when they are not labeled. That is the beauty in them. Using mixed media and a large-scale medium, I connect the natural systems to emotional experiences.
Upon self reflection, I’ve realized that what fuels my art are the moments, people and places that evoke feelings of love and comfort. In this state is when I am truly inspired to create something- I feel lucky that I have so many reasons to want to make art. I invite viewers to interpret and find their own patterns in my work evoking a sense of recognition, and connection.
“L’Esplorazione”
Acrylic on canvas
60x45 in
2026
From my earliest memories at the beach, I think of my dad. Whether it was building the tallest sand volcanoes with my siblings or teaching us how to snorkel we were always moving. This piece is based on the idea of the “exploration” (esplorazione) we would do observing the natural organisms and “looking for the treasure” while snorkeling. Even if there was just sand below the surface there was always a sense of magic to what we saw.
I owe a big part of my love for the sea to my dad and the idea that I shouldn’t be scared of it. Embracing the sea and exploring the water has become a part of me. There is no time I go to the beach and don’t think of these moments snorkeling with my dad.
6:13am
60 x 48 in.
Acrylics on canvas
2026
Based on a photograph this past summer at sunrise, 6:13 am, this piece aims to capture the patterns and brightness of the sky and clouds on Spetses island (Greece).
Pieces
24 x 18 in.
Block print, gouache on wood panel
2026
Mara De Meis
36°38'58"N 24°19'50"E
24 x 18 in.
Block print, gouache on wood panel
Puzzle
47 x 38 in.
Acrylics on canvas
2026
This piece is made using a block print of patterns generated by from a collection of personal photographs of people who are deeply important to me. To explore relationships from an abstract perspective, I sketched patterns and forms that emerged from close-up views of hugs and the natural folds and creases of the body. There is a juxtaposition between the geometric precision of the rectangle blocks and the accidental nature of the color combinations. Made on raw canvas it conveys the sense of passion and exposure in relationships.
35 South St.
20x 15 in.
Wood, acrylic paint
2026
My apartment building at 35 South St, over the last two years has held a lot of fond memories for me. Based on an abstract breakdown of the floor plan of my apartment floor I aim to honor this through this wall relief.
10 Asklipiou St.
20x 15 in.
Wood, acrylic paint
2026
Based on the floor plan of my sister and I's connecting rooms and bathroom, this piece aims to capture the fond memories and childhood innocence through architectural symbols.