They say the eyes are the “window of the soul.”  Perhaps that’s why eyes have been a central focus in the evolving art of Marybeth Stafford, an artist whose original watercolors and oils have sold worldwide.  Drawn to the drama of color, many of Marybeth’s creations are composite paintings that tell stories of the metamorphosis of the human soul.  Intermingling her love of art with her love for God, she inevitably infuses the one thing that captures the viewer and seizes the heart—identification.  Her characters visually express the power that makes us understand them in their journey from weakness to strength.  And in that brief instant, we identify ourselves. 

How rare as a viewer to feel understood. 

From age ten, Marybeth knew art would be her passion. Through a divine commission, painting is now not only her vocation but her ministry, the kind that comes from trusting God to enlighten and empower her imagination with images of His heart.

Marybeth’s professional debut began in 1992 with “Behold the Handmaiden of the Lord,” the impactful, entrancing lithograph portraying both the turbulence and wonderment of a virgin called Mary being chosen to be the mother of Jesus. 

 Thus was born… art of His heart.

Biblical characters at the intersection of their touch by God became a powerful source of creative inspiration. The woman at the well, the prostitute at Jesus’ feet, Nicodemus at the wall in Jerusalem – all convey the poignancy of the revelation of the love of Christ.

Marybeth desires to energize the Christian community with quality art that woos the spiritual, emotional and physical senses to experience the drama of the power of God. It is also her longing to inspire artists in every field to be a conduit for the unique expression He gives each one to  advance His kingdom in the earth.

Since receiving her degree from Azusa Pacific University, Marybeth’s work includes not only original paintings, prints, and limited edition lithographs, but wall murals, animals, portraits, commissioned paintings, heart-wreath guest books and one-woman shows.  She can be contacted at her new studio at 951-808-9605 or by e-mail studio@marybethart.com.