Bio

Mary Lea Bradley is an abstract artist known for her intuitive, emotionally charged works that invite viewers to find their own meaning. Guided by color, light, and movement, her paintings create atmospheric spaces that spark curiosity and reflection. Based in San Diego, her art is collected internationally, bringing a sense of beauty and discovery to homes and galleries around the world.

My Story

I create because it brings me joy—pure and simple. After raising three wonderful sons and retiring from my job at the local paint store, I finally found the freedom to follow my curiosity wherever it leads. These days, I spend my time playing with color, layering textures, and letting intuition guide the way.

I’m a cancer survivor, a laid-back San Diegan, and a proud member of a Dragon Boat team. When I’m not in the studio, you’ll likely find me out on the water or relaxing with my husband, Ron, soaking up the beauty of everyday life.

My work is rooted in emotion and movement—each piece is a conversation between color, light, and possibility. I love creating spaces that invite wonder, where viewers can discover their own stories hidden in the layers. It’s been a joy to see my art find homes around the world, bringing a sense of beauty, curiosity, and connection wherever it lands.

Artist Statement

Art is my playground—a space where I explore the vibrant interplay of color, texture, and pattern inspired by the energy of San Diego and the warmth of its people. As a self-taught, independent artist, I embrace spontaneity and experimentation, letting intuition and curiosity guide each piece. My process is rooted in discovery, layering materials and allowing the unexpected to shape the final result.

Through abstraction, I aim to communicate emotions and stories that words can’t express, inviting viewers to find their own meaning in each work. My art is a celebration of life’s complexities and connections, offering moments of joy, reflection, and curiosity. Ultimately, I hope my paintings spark conversations and create a sense of beauty and discovery that resonates beyond the canvas.