Mary Stengel Bentley is a Nashville-based artist known for her highly stylized botanical paintings and geometric abstractions.
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Multidisciplinary artist based in Nashville, TN, working primarily in painting, drawing, and public installation.
Mary Stengel Bentley’s practice is deeply rooted in the study of unconscious mark-making, driven by her passion for creating vibrant, life-filled images through an expressive style. Nature, along with music, color, and the pursuit of unique connections, continually inspires her work. In her murals and public installations, Mary is dedicated to creating art that harmonizes with its environment, aiming to evoke an emotional impact that is distinct to each space. Her work emphasizes the singularity of the locations where it is displayed.
Mary’s art has garnered recognition and has been collected by prominent organizations, including Capital One. Her murals are featured in notable locations such as Yale University, Workday Headquarters, The Alcove Nashville, and Music Row. Additionally, her prints are displayed in the lobby of Bobby Nashville as part of the latest installment of The Collection: Yin-Yang.
What was the moment you knew you had to pursue art professionally?
Ever since I picked up my first crayon as a kid I knew I wanted to be an artist.
Let’s dive into your creative process. What does a typical day in the studio look like?
It varies depending on the project I am working on. Lately, I have been working on a lot of murals so it’s less painting in the studio, and more designing the work on my iPad in this one corner of my house that looks out at our garden.
Are there any common themes you explore in your artwork?
As an abstract artist, my themes are a little obscure but I am always searching to create artworks that embody musicality and connection.
Speaking of themes, how does your work in Bobby Nashville’s The Collection: Yin Yang explore its theme?
It explores both of the themes above through color and shape - black and white forms interact in various compositions creating different visual rhythms.
What’s your favorite place in Nashville, and how has it inspired you or your work?
I am always looking towards nature for inspiration so my favorite places to get lost are Percy Warner Park and Radnor Lake.
What’s your go-to Nashville restaurant spot?
Redheaded Stranger for the win!
If you could have dinner with any three people, dead or alive, who would they be and why?
I’m on a really big podcast kick at the moment so I’m going to use this to shape some of my answers… First would be Julia Louis-Dreyfus because I love her curiosity, humor and wit. Second, I would want to have dinner with Will Arnett, Jason Bateman and Sean Hayes (Smartless) because of how funny they are together and I think I would laugh for hours. And last, I’m going to pivot back to art and say [Henri] Matisse so I could talk to the master of color, line, form and feeling until the wee hours of the morning.
Are there any local artists, musicians, or creators in Nashville whose work you particularly admire?
Elizabeth Williams of New Hat is a creative force and kind soul that pumps out jaw-dropping designs in every sort of material you can think of.
Nicole Johnson and Lia LaRue of Nic & Maude have effortless style and cool factor. Their brand has been built from the bottom up using a work ethic that I find truly inspiring.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
Don’t worry about the past, don’t worry about the future. Forget time, just be.
What's on the horizon for you? What can we look forward to next?
I am currently working on two murals - one for a local bank and one for a private collector. I plan to get back into the studio when these murals are finished as I have a strong desire to make paintings again and just play with paint.
