Mary's work is whimsical, niaive and humorous. Cleverly using common sayings and the "New Zealand Vernacular" Mary creates paintings that are full of charm and which feature a variety of everyday non-art materials used in inventive ways.

Mary's work has featured in a number of group exhibitions both in the Mosaic Gallery and the Hastings Community Art Gallery in Hastings, Hawke's Bay. Mary is also an energetic promoter of her work, visiting cafes.

From the "Hard Case" Exhibition 

Mary's Story

Mary Vaughan, a student at Mosaic speaks to Terry McKenna, August 2008

How did you first hear about Mosaic, Mary?
“When Peter Moodie was at Duart after the flood at Rowan, he was talking about Mosaic and he was keen for me to come over.

How was it when you first came here?
“I was keen to do literacy and computers, which I did in the first term. I also did Electronics, which we did in those days. The next term I saw them doing art. I'd never tried it before, and it was successful. Since then I've put my artwork in shops, the Hawke's Bay Review, the Winebox Auction, and in the Hawke's Bay Artists challenge at the Hastings Community Arts Centre.”

Tell me about your art...
“The first day was sort of a learning experience with the tutor, Leighann Coleman, showing me different ways to mix paint. After that I could do it for myself and she was surprised at the colours I could mix up for myself. My art has taken different directions, for instance, mosaics, small sculptures, woodwork and pastels, which has been successful in the art world, selling some of these. I really have sold quite a few!”

What are the good things about coming to Mosaic?
I get on with most other people with disabilities here at Mosaic and encourage them with their endeavours. I made many new friends. The staff are very understanding – if there is any criticism to be done they do it without putting anybody down, but in a humorous way that feels good. Since coming to Mosaic I have been able to try things I never thought I would. I've got more confidence. When I first came I couldn't sit up straight and now I can without any support. This place has really made me feel alive again. The atmosphere all around is good, there's always someone to talk to if you are feeling upset that isn't going to judge you. The art gallery has been a success for me by putting my artwork in my own exhibition. I even sold some before the opening!

When you do your own artwork about your own ideas...
“Just to be able to express myself and put it down on paper.. its exciting and I get a sense of achievement. It gives me great pleasure to see myself being able to do it when many people would never even dream of picking up a pencil and putting something down and saying 'Oooh it does look good!” My Family are thrilled that I'm here and thrilled that I am painting and expressing myself. They are pleased I feel proud and can express myself in a way I never thought I'd be able to. I'm looking forward to many years of being here and taking part in its activities as long as I'm able to. I also like to contribute to what's going on.”