Maria Lynn Heaton is a mixed media and collage artist from Apex, North Carolina.

Maria uses a layering technique for her creations that combines both watercolor washes and acrylic glazes applied to paper or canvas. Ink veining, fibers and found objects are sometimes added for effect.

Before settling in Apex, Maria called Atlanta, Georgia home. This was where she became transfixed with the subtle shades of a peach, the vibrant hues of an azalea and the sparkling sheen of “The Varsity’s” onion rings! After a brief move to Tampa, Florida, Maria met and married Jon Heaton and then moved to North Carolina to begin a family.

Maria’s background is primarily in Early Childhood Education. After years of finger painting paper plates, she decided to give acrylics and watercolors a try. Maria attended a variety of local workshops but received much of her training from fellow artist and mother in law, Sarah Levering-Smith. Maria immersed herself in painting and soon discovered the works of water-media artist Edward Betts and collage artist Betty Guernesey. This journey was instrumental in the development of her own dramatic style. She now delights in any spare moment that can be spent painting or rummaging through antique shops and flea markets for interesting objects.

Encouragement and support from her husband Jon, coupled with the love and inspiration from her children Conley and Sammy, has given Maria the courage to bring her creations out of her studio and into your home.

Maria is an active member of the Fine Arts League of Cary, the Durham Arts Guild and the Apex Arts Council.