Mary Ann Strandell painting at Badlands National Park

Mary Ann Strandell: Finding Creativity in Open Spaces

Maker, painter, innovator – Mary Ann Strandell is endlessly inspired by the solace and complexity of South Dakota's infinite landscapes.

Born in Watertown, Mary Ann was always the "kid in a corner with her crafts." Over the years, her art has taken her all over the world, from the Netherlands to New York City. But, no matter how far she goes, South Dakota keeps calling her back. Here, she finds a welcoming stillness that enables her to focus and find joy and peace in her work. In this video, journey with Mary Ann from Badlands National Park to Pactola Lake and learn about her art, what she finds inspiring and the reasons she makes a voyage to her home state every year. 

Artist Mary Ann Strandell painting a picture at Badlands National Park.

How Mary Ann Finds Artistic Expression in South Dakota

I’m kind of drawn back to [South] Dakota like it’s a big magnet.
Mary Ann Strandell
The artist sits in the forest while working on a painting
Artist Mary Ann Strandell painting in the forest near Pactola Lake.
Close-up of an oil painting
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