My Story
MK Bryant Fine Art photographer
A fascination with water is evident in Mary’s photography, whether it is a photo of a waterfall or the sun setting over the ocean, most of her photos are either of the water, or scenes close to water. For her, the essence of water is reflection.
Interested in photography and drawn to landscapes and nature from a young age, her first photos were of scenes around the Little Mulberry River taken with a Kodak Instamatic camera while riding with her grandfather on his rural mail route. She would go on to shoot with 35mm film before embracing digital photography.
A love of travel became a natural companion to her interest in photography. Her portfolio includes images from her journeys all over the US and around the world. She enjoys setting off on “photo-cations” whether they be short drives through the natural beauty of her home state, road trips around the US, coastal destinations or colorful tropical islands.
Mary’s image of the Dyess, Arkansas Theater was featured in the Photographic Society of Northwest Arkansas’ (PSNWA) Gallery Show: Abandoned Buildings. She’s received Honorable Mention for photos in PSNWA Competitions: Signs, Sunsets, and Urban Decay. She had a photo depicting Autumn in the Ozarks featured on the front page of The Madison County Record in November 2014.
Mary is at home surrounded by streams and waterfalls in rural Northwest Arkansas with her husband of 38 years, two sons and two adorable grandchildren. She holds a BSBA and MBA from the University of Arkansas.
Artist Statement
Water is both powerful and calming, evoking both fear and peace. I am drawn to water, especially the rushing roar of waterfalls or the rhythmic lapping of ocean waves, yet a bit fearful of water, as well.
I first experienced the lure of waterfalls on a trip to Hawaii and was captivated. I returned home and began seeking out local waterfalls, using Tim Ernst’s book, Arkansas Waterfalls, as my guide. After a few years of experiencing waterfalls first hand and being influenced by Tim’s work I, too, wanted to capture the essence of the water through photography.
For me the essence of water is reflection and courage. I know of no better place for reflecting and soul-searching than next to a gurgling stream or the steady waves of the ocean. Just as water overcomes obstacles of rock to create a path for itself, I find water gives me courage to step away from comfort and accomplish goals and dreams. I strive to portray the emotions I feel as I experience the organic nature of water as it cascades down a rugged bluff, plays with light, clouds and shadows, or reflects the sun at the golden hour of the day. I am drawn by the water to travel to new places and cultures where I can experience the water and marvel at the light.
No matter where I travel, as the day draws to an end and the light turns golden, I know where I’ll be – capturing the sunset over the water.