By Seraphina Quinn
Mary Catherine Foley has a unique path to becoming an author, one marked by constant movement, diverse career experiences, and a love for creativity. Her life story is a testament to strength and the power of creativity in overcoming challenges. Born into a family that moved frequently due to her father’s academic career, Foley experienced the challenges and excitement of constantly discovering new places. This nomadic childhood, moving from city to city and attending multiple high schools, instilled in her a sense of adaptability and a deep appreciation for different urban landscapes.
After completing college in West Virginia, Foley’s professional journey took her to various cities across the United States, including Connecticut, Charlotte, and Detroit. She worked in environmental science before taking on the role of operations manager for her husband’s industrial bolting business. Despite the stability of her professional life, Foley’s entrepreneurial spirit and creative inclinations were always present.
Foley’s journey to authorship is rooted in her fascination with adult coloring books. She was initially intrigued by the trend of adults engaging in coloring as a therapeutic activity. This curiosity led her to explore the potential of creating her own series of coloring books inspired by the many cities she had lived in and loved. Her first book, focused on Charleston, South Carolina, was a labor of love that brought her immense joy. The process of creating the book, filled with detailed illustrations of her favorite city, was both therapeutic and deeply satisfying.
Charleston holds a special place in Foley’s heart, and the creation of the coloring book allowed her to immerse herself in the city’s beauty and charm. Her positive experience with the Charleston book encouraged her to continue creating coloring books based on other cities she had lived in, such as Boston, Chicago, and even the entire state of West Virginia. Each book is a reflection of her personal experiences and memories of these places, capturing their unique essence and cultural heritage.
Foley’s coloring books are not just about providing a relaxing activity for adults. They are also designed to educate and inspire. Each illustration is accompanied by a brief description of the landmark or location, encouraging readers to learn more about the history and significance of these places. This combination of artistic expression and educational content makes her books unique and appealing to a wide audience.
The therapeutic benefits of coloring are well-documented, and Foley’s books aim to provide readers with a calming and enjoyable experience. She believes that coloring can be a meditative activity that helps people relax and unwind. For Foley, the act of creating these books is also a form of therapy, allowing her to channel her creative energy and share her love for the cities she has called home.
One key element that makes Foley’s coloring books stand out is her use of vibrant colors and twisted details. She spends considerable time researching each city, ensuring that the illustrations accurately represent the landmarks and cultural elements that make each place unique. This attention to detail not only enhances the visual appeal of the books but also provides readers with an immersive experience as they explore each page.
Despite the challenges of balancing her full-time job and raising two teenage children, Foley has managed to find time to work on her coloring books. She often spends her evenings and weekends working on new illustrations, finding the process both relaxing and rewarding. Her dedication and passion for her work are evident in the quality and depth of each book she creates.
Foley’s use of artificial intelligence (AI) to assist with the illustrations is proof of her innovative approach to creativity. While she acknowledges the controversy surrounding AI, she views it as a helpful tool that allows her to bring her vision to life. By combining AI-generated images with her artistic touch in Photoshop, Foley creates unique and personal illustrations.
Looking to the future, Foley plans to continue expanding her series of coloring books, with upcoming titles featuring cities like Washington, D.C., Nashville, Portland, and Seattle. She also dreams of creating books based on international cities she has visited, further broadening the scope of her work. Her ultimate goal is to share her love for these places with others and inspire them to explore and appreciate the beauty and diversity of urban life.
Foley’s story is one of perseverance, creativity, and a deep appreciation for the world around her. Her coloring books are more than just a hobby; they reflect her life’s journey and celebrate the places that have shaped her. Through her work, she hopes to bring joy and inspiration to others, encouraging them to find beauty every day and embrace their creative potential.
Mary Catherine Foley’s artistic journey from a constantly moving childhood to creating beloved coloring books is a remarkable tale of strength and creativity. Her work provides a therapeutic and educational experience for readers and serves as a testament to the power of creativity in overcoming life’s challenges. As she continues to expand her series, Foley’s books will undoubtedly inspire and delight many, highlighting the vibrant and diverse urban landscapes that have been an integral part of her life.
Published by: Holy Minoza
