BIO Meryl is a self-taught artist based in Asheville, NC, originally from the Boston area. With a deep passion for art and design, she has woven these interests into her professional life for many years. Holding a degree in Art History from Framingham State University, Meryl's creative journey has been diverse. She has taken on roles such as painter, art consultant, travel agent, gallery manager, interior designer, and jewelry designer, ultimately returning to her first love: painting. Her work is profoundly influenced by her European travels, history, mythology, and the natural world. Recently, Meryl has been exploring themes of sanctuary, women's issues, personal growth, and our inner worlds in her art. Common threads in her work include vibrant color, a sense of connection, dynamic energy, nature, and a touch of whimsy. She has found joy in balancing realism and abstraction, enhancing her artistic expression and personal fulfillment.