Mary MacCarthy studied textile design and fine art at Camberwell School of Art from 1968 - 1971. On graduating, she began working for private clients in England, Europe and America and quickly established a reputation for fine and accurate design combined with a vibrant colour sense. As a pioneer of the newly rediscovered art of stencilling, she distinguished herself from the mainstream commercial stencil craze by always using the technique sparingly, never resorting to spray paints, and by treating the technique as a means to a design rather than an end in itself.

Mary’s grandparents - Desmond & Molly MacCarthy - were central to the Bloomsbury Group and the creative influence of Charleston is evident in Mary’s work.

She has contributed to several books on decorative art and her work has been featured in many magazines - including the influential “World of Interiors”.
She is the author of three books:
"The Arts & Crafts Stencil Book",
"The Craftworkers Pattern Source book" - a compendium of 1000 designs from around the world (both for Crysalis) and
"Simple Trompe l’oeil" (Cico Books).

Mary has recently gained a reputation as a muralist and painter of saliera (decorative panels for specific architectural situations). Her influences are wide-ranging and eclectic - from plant shapes, textures and colours in nature through to antique textiles, pottery, medieval painting and ethnic art. When working on a project she likes to research in depth - sketching, photographing and delving into her library of decorative art. She delights in tailoring her commissions to her patrons, using personal references and humour where appropriate. She hates to repeat herself, and loves taking on new projects, techniques and challenges. Her designs range from light and delicate to rich and vibrant but always repay close examination.

Mary is married with two children and lives in Norfolk and London. Her interests include cooking, gardening, sailing, film, music, travel and literature.