The Collection

Marianna's work is on display at the Santa Fe Spring Arts Festival in Gainesville. This collection features works that celebrate the beauty of our differences. The art speaks volumes about Marianna's unique genetic variation, as well as her lived experiences. Behind every stroke of the brush or pen are hours of physical and occupational therapy. Art is Marianna's passion and she hopes her paintings will help you see and appreciate the beauty of our differences. She is grateful to the Santa Fe College and Art Community for including her collection in this festival and recognizing her with the Award of Merit in 2024. This year she is returning to present The Beloved Community - a collection celebrating a world where everyone belongs.

Trisomy 21

Trisomy 21 or Down syndrome occurs when there are three copies of the 21st chromosome instead of 2. Marianna tends to paint objects in 3 or more, and we couldn't help but notice the similarity of this pattern to her genetic makeup. We think these colorful spheres illustrate the beauty and wonder of diversity.

The Beauty of Autism

Marianna requires order, repetition and routine. Her watermelon designs speak volumes about these characteristics of her autistic personality. For every painting you see, there were dozens that didn't meet her standards and fell to the trash. These traits, which can sometimes be frustrating to others, are the very traits that make this artwork so beautiful.

More alike than different

The Down syndrome community has a saying that we are all "more alike than different." People who have Down syndrome have the same feelings, desires and dreams as everyone else. We all want to be included and we all want to belong. Marianna's adorable stick figures remind us that no two friends look alike, but inside we are more alike than different!

Inclusion

Marianna colors humanity through eyes of love. In Marianna's world, everyone belongs. Marianna is fascinated with hearts. She paints rows and rows of them and she includes them in the majority of her designs. Be like Marianna -- love one another!

A Childlike Faith

Marianna has a hard time understanding concepts she cannot see -- such as faith in an invisible God. We were amazed when her Easter painting, done entirely on her own, covered the cross, the empty tomb, the stone that was rolled away and the curtain torn in two. On her way to show mom, she dropped it, splattering paint every where but reminding us that what some consider an accident, God considers perfection!

Award of Merit

Santa Fe Spring Arts Festival 2024