Bold, expressive figurative paintings celebrating women · Original works & first edition giclée prints · Bend, Oregon
Mary Kilpatrick has spent her life telling stories that matter — on Broadway stages, in a book used in shelters and counseling settings worldwide, and on canvas. Her paintings are vivid, emotionally charged works centered on women's lives: their strength, their tenderness, their resilience, and their joy.
Mary's artistic journey began under the lights of New York City's most storied theaters. She performed on Broadway at the Martin Beck Theatre in the long-running revival of Oh! Calcutta! (1976–1989). Her national tour credits include The Pirates of Penzance (1986–1988), Bye Bye Birdie, and Seven Brides for Seven Brothers. She later appeared in the independent film A Stone in the Water (2019), shot in Central Oregon. That theatrical training carried directly into her painting — her figures carry gesture, weight, and emotional presence that only comes from years of performing and directing.
While working as a Children's Specialist at Sanctuary for Families in New York City, Mary saw firsthand what children endure in violent homes. With her husband, writer Howard Schor, she created A Place for Starr: A Story of Hope for Children Experiencing Family Violence — illustrating it from the child's perspective, showing adults only from the neck down, the way a small child actually sees the world. The book sold over 10,000 copies across two editions and continues to be used as a therapeutic tool in shelters and counseling settings worldwide.
After relocating to Bend, OR in 2002, Mary continued advocacy work with Saving Grace and co-founded BEAT Children's Theatre (Bend Experimental Art Theatre) in 2006. The program now serves over 500 students directly each season, reaches 1,500–2,000 more through community partnerships, and draws approximately 5,000 audience members annually. In 2015, the Oregon State Legislature passed House Resolution 9 formally honoring Mary and Howard for their work building BEAT.
Currently exhibiting in the Texas Hill Country — available for private showings in the Boerne, San Antonio, and Austin corridor.
Her paintings explore female-centric themes — women in moments of strength and quiet reflection, in celebration and in solitude, in community and in independence. A performer's eye for the human figure, an illustrator's gift for narrative, and an advocate's authenticity earned alongside women and children in crisis — these rarely come together in a single artist. In Mary's work, they do.
Every painting is a one-of-one original — when it sells, it's gone. Originals range from $2,000 to $25,000 and include a Certificate of Authenticity. Inquire for condition notes, framing, and shipping details. Private viewings available by appointment.
Each painting is available as a first edition giclée print on 100% cotton rag fine art paper — Somerset Velvet (255 gsm), Hot Press Smooth (330 gsm), or Cold Press Textured (340 gsm). Archival pigment inks rated to last over 100 years. Each edition is limited to a maximum of 100 prints, accompanied by a signed Certificate of Authenticity.
Once a first edition sells out, it is closed permanently.
"Mary's work is unlike anything I've seen. I purchased Earth Mother and it completely transformed the room. The texture, the color, the presence — extraordinary. Worth every penny."
— Sandra T.
"I've been collecting art for twenty years and Mary's paintings have a story behind them that most work doesn't. Showgirl is the centerpiece of my home. Every detail of the transaction was handled beautifully."
— Carolyn M.
"I adore my Mary original hanging in my house. Guests notice it and comment often. The painting completes the room."
— Dione J.
"Mary's background in theater comes through in every painting. The figures feel alive. I purchased Girls Night Out as a gift and the recipient cried. That's what great art does."
— Laura K.
Use the inquiry form below or email art@marykilpatrick.com with the title of the work you're interested in. The studio will provide condition notes, framing details, and shipping options. Private viewings are available by appointment in Bend, OR.
Yes. First edition giclée prints are available for all works on 100% cotton rag fine art paper — Somerset Velvet (255 gsm), Hot Press Smooth (330 gsm), or Cold Press Textured (340 gsm). Archival pigment inks rated to last over 100 years. Each print ships with a signed Certificate of Authenticity. Once an edition sells out, it closes permanently.
Mary primarily paints in acrylic and mixed media on canvas. Many works incorporate feathers, glass jewelry, cotton, fabric, and other found materials that add texture and dimension to the surface.
Yes. Every original painting comes with a Certificate of Authenticity. Giclée prints also include a signed certificate from the artist.
Yes. Private viewings are available by appointment in Bend, Oregon. Contact art@marykilpatrick.com to schedule.
Giclée (zhee-KLAY) is a museum-quality fine art printing process using archival pigment inks on premium substrates. Mary's prints are produced on 100% cotton rag fine art paper — Somerset Velvet, Hot Press, or Cold Press — the same materials used by galleries and museums worldwide. The result is exceptional color fidelity and detail that lasts over 100 years without fading when properly cared for.
Keep paintings away from direct sunlight, high humidity, and extreme temperature fluctuations. Acrylic paintings can be gently dusted with a soft dry brush. Avoid hanging near heating or cooling vents. For mixed media works with physical elements such as feathers or fabric, avoid touching the surface. If a painting needs cleaning beyond dusting, consult a professional conservator.
Shipping details are arranged after purchase. Smaller works are carefully packaged and shipped via insured carrier. Larger works may require custom crating. Shipping costs are discussed at time of sale. Local buyers in Bend, OR are welcome to arrange pickup by appointment.
A Certificate of Authenticity is a signed document from the artist confirming the work is an original, one-of-one painting created by Mary Kilpatrick. It includes the title, medium, dimensions, and date of the work. This certificate accompanies every original painting and every giclée print sold through the studio, and adds provenance value for collectors.
For questions about originals, prints, or anything else — fill out the form below or contact directly.
art@marykilpatrick.comMary Kilpatrick creates original contemporary figurative paintings centered on women, emotional storytelling, resilience, movement, and human connection. Her artwork is inspired by a lifelong background in Broadway performance, national touring productions, published illustration, and advocacy work supporting women and children. Original acrylic and mixed media paintings available directly from the artist. First edition giclée fine art paper prints available online. Based in Bend, Oregon.