“Making art is a celebration of life and I love the process. I have worked in many media: oil, acrylic, pastel, watercolor and also working with a press creating monotypes. I find the challenge in each exciting. Initially my work was representational and done in an Impressionistic style, the light and color a prime concern. Gradually as I experienced more mediums and tried new things, the work became looser and more abstract. I was finding a way to express thoughts and feelings without being tied to an actual image and I loved the challenge of using the tools of art making and intuition to reach the moment when the work spoke back to me. I move back and forth between representational and non-representational work and welcome the challenge that both approaches present. Also, I really love color and believe that is the continuing thread in my work.”

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Born: Chicago, Illinois. Childhood spent in Park Ridge, IL.
Graduated Maine Township High School, Des Plaines, IL
Attended Iowa State University, Ames, IA.
Married James Newman upon his graduation and commissioning as Ensign in USN.
Moved every two years as a Navy wife and mother of two sons and two daughters.
In 1970 the family moved to the Melbourne, FL area. This was the opportunity for Marlis to pursue the other dream of her childhood. To make art. She studied with many fine artists, took workshops and seminars at every opportunity.In 1976 she became a charter member of the Pastel Society of America, entered local, regional and national art competitions, winning awards in many.
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
Brevard Art Museum.
Painting Instructor, Oil,
Acrylic, Pastel & Mixed Media
(1981-1992)
Monotype Instructor
(1999-2006)
Painting Workshops and Demonstrations for art groups and associations.
(1980-1995)