Yes, Mango Bears. A friend of a friend suggested the name ‘Mango’ to me during the May First Friday. The name fits like a glove on a paw. The bears approved it and now it’s official. The little paintings that start as whimsical play are now called Mango Bears.

What are Mango Bears? Surprising colors and playful bears with names that suit them. They tell me their names. It’s as clear as a tree falling in the middle of the forest.

My first Mango Bear emerged one day when I was experimenting with different colors on a small canvas. The finished painting made me smile when it greeted me from the studio in the morning. I started a second one right away. I even worked on one in Florida. The colors of the bright pink flowers invaded the canvas and “Tropical Bruin” was born. “Mango Bear: Theo” ran out the door as soon as his paint dried. His Ravenista told me that her whole family enjoys his antics.

What is it about these silly ole bears? I’ve painted for many years. Studied, practiced, struggled, succeeded, failed and tried again. I’ve been encouraged, discouraged but kept coming back. Paint is my language. It is my passion. I love to work on large paintings and make dramatic swooping brushstrokes but when I play with pigment on small canvas and see a small bear face appear, it takes me back to the little girl inside me. She dabbles with paint and loves to see color swirl and mix. Mango Bears make me smile. Do they make you smile too?

Mango Bear: Theodore

His Ravenista family is traveling around the world right now. He is looking forward to their arrival so he can get settled into his new home.

 

Would you like to meet MB Sabrina?

 

Two First Fridays in a row was exciting. Alaska House Art Gallery, Fairbanks in May and Stephan Fine Arts, Captain Cook Hotel, Anchorage in June.

When I saw my paintings displayed on the walls of the gallery, I was reminded of seeing our children at a graduation ceremony. They look different. Grown up and formal and independent. They sparkle. We go through a lot with them as they grow and change. But now it is done. It is time for reflection and celebration!

Sharing this experience with others made both evenings perfect. Connecting. Art does that for me. My paintings speak to others when it gives them joy. We connect through the language of color and brushstroke and emotion. It’s a connection that keeps my creativity flowing and encourages me to run back to the easel.

Thank you Ravenistas and to everyone who came and enjoyed the festivities with me!

“Sabrina”
10″ x 8″  painting on canvas by Raven
$375.

Mango Bears are all about fun and whimsy. Festive colors and pigment that swishes and blends with a splash here and a swoosh there. Color for the fun of it. Color to make your eyes dance. They want to make you smile. Curious about Mango Bears?

MB Sabrina is currently visiting Anchorage under the attentive guardianship of Stephan Fine Arts Gallery.