About Marie Gerhold Pontti

Hello!

Welcome to my art studio. I was born in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. My passion for creating started at an early age. I loved art classes and any school project that required creativity.  To this day the smell of a fresh box of crayons is wonderful to me. I took  art courses any time I could fit them into my schedule during high school and college. While in college, I designed t-shirts and painted party cups. I finished college with degrees in psychology & elementary education.  Over the years, I have been using my creativity and skill set in the classroom and with my own three children in our home. I'm currently teaching art & design courses that I built for middle school students across the state of Louisiana in an online school setting.

 

Diversity found in nature is a huge inspiration for me.  I'm constantly awe of contrasts & details in nature. The light blue-green waters and white sand beaches of the Gulf Coast, the heavy shade of massive oaks, broad magnolias, and palm trees; the vibrant & colorful life of a region filled with pelicans, fish, alligators, crawfish, crabs, and all types of sea life- there is endless inspiration outdoors. 

 

In July of 2022, I was diagnosed with stage 3 triple-negative breast cancer. I  am now finished with treatment. After diagnosis, I started to reevaluate my reaction to stress. I'm using meditation, yoga, and art journaling. I have switched to a more plant based diet; and I am  brushing off fear that has stopped me from sharing my creativity with others.  I feel that I've gotten a tap on the shoulder from the greatest Creator of all and a second chance at life. I hope you will enjoy my art and allow me to paint something for you. 

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Sincerely, 

Marie