Sally Dean
Beyond Boundaries

Artist Statement

Art has always been my way of exploring the world with curiosity and adventure. Whether I'm painting, drawing, sculpting, printing, assembling found objects, or experimenting with a new medium, I believe every material has a story waiting to be discovered. I don't believe in limiting myself to one way of making art—there is always another technique to learn, another idea to chase, and another creative path to follow.

My backyard studio is my favorite place to create. Surrounded by gardens, birdsong, changing seasons, and the occasional visit from curious animals, I find endless inspiration in nature. Flowers, trees, wildlife, and the everyday magic of the outdoors often find their way into my work, sometimes just as they are and sometimes transformed by imagination into playful, unexpected worlds.

A spirit of play is at the heart of everything I make. I enjoy combining materials, taking creative risks, and allowing accidents to become discoveries. Humor, color, and whimsy invite viewers to look a little closer and smile.

I also believe it is never too late to begin creating. Every new medium offers a fresh adventure, every mistake becomes a lesson, and every finished piece opens the door to the next idea. My work celebrates lifelong learning, joyful experimentation, and the simple pleasure of making something with your hands.

Through my art, I hope to share a love of animals, gardens, nature, imagination, and the delight of seeing the ordinary become extraordinary. If my work encourages someone to explore, play, create, or simply see the world with fresh eyes, then the adventure has been worthwhile.

Last year I retired from a 24-year career as Education Coordinator at the Art Complex Museum, right here in Duxbury. I am happy to remain part of this vibrant arts community.

Artist Bio

Sally Dean is a native of Norwell, Massachusetts and currently lives in Marshfield. With an artful lineage going way back on both sides, including music and painting, Sally has followed in those footsteps.

In addition to showing, teaching and working with seniors, Sally has created several public murals in the past few years with Scituate artist Cathy McCarthy. Every year, together with another Scituate artist, Michelle Levesque, Sally has created large papier mache parade puppets working with all ages of the community. North River Arts Festival on Memorial Day weekend has an all-inclusive puppet parade every year that features these puppets, and many more that have been created in the past. Most recently at North River Arts Sally was awarded the Carolyn Harvey Memorial Award of Creativity.

Sally pursued formal education at The School of the Museum Fine Arts in Boston and Tufts University, graduating in 1981. Last fall, Sally retired from a 24-year career as Education Coordinator at the Art Complex Museum in Duxbury. Sally remains active in that unique institution as a volunteer and teacher.

To see more of Sally’s work and adventures please follow on instagram:   @sallydeanart