Original oil paintings + Prints + Wearable art
Art that makes you smile - then makes you think
Every painting begins with a sculpture. Mari Jae creates oil paintings from hand-sculpted wax-string figures. Using thought bubbles, speech bubbles, humor, and visual storytelling, her work examines the often-overlooked space between what people think, what they say, and how they connect. Beyond the playful appearances are observations about communication, relationships, and modern life. Her artwork is whimsical on the surface, pointed underneath. These dimensional characters tackle politics, family dynamics, and the beautiful strangeness of being human. Shown internationally. Collected across the US, France, and Switzerland.
It’s a Toss (Up) - Oil Paint on Canvas
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Congress
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Look (Out) - SOLD
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Dinner (Party)
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Mr. Pineapple
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(Not) Cloudy
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It's a Toss (Up)
"I create paintings that examine communication, relationships, and the often surprising distance between intention and interpretation. Through sculpted wax-string figures, humor, and visual storytelling, I invite viewers to reconsider the conversations happening around them and within themselves."
— Mari Jae, Artist Statement
Artist Prints
Not every reaction needs to be dramatic.
Eh embraces one of life's most underrated responses: indifference. Featuring a charming wax-string figure paired with a simple expression, this contemporary art print captures the moments when enthusiasm fades, expectations settle, and acceptance quietly takes its place.
The figure's playful stance and quirky personality prevent the work from feeling cynical. Instead, Eh finds humor and honesty in everyday emotional reality, transforming a familiar shrug into a surprisingly relatable piece of visual storytelling.
Equal parts witty and self-aware, this artwork resonates with anyone who has learned that not every moment requires a strong opinion.
• Clever and relatable emotional storytelling
• Signature wax-string figure artwork
• Blends humor with honesty
• Contemporary minimalist aesthetic
• Sparks smiles and conversation
• Paper thickness: 10.3 mil
• Paper weight: 189 g/m²
• Opacity: 94%
• ISO brightness: 104%
• Paper is sourced from Japan
This product is made especially for you as soon as you place an order, which is why it takes us a bit longer to deliver it to you. Making products on demand instead of in bulk helps reduce overproduction, so thank you for making thoughtful purchasing decisions!
One of the most collected works in the series. A figure in the moment just before becoming flight — not airborne yet, but decided. The warm palette and upward gesture have made this the most requested print in the collection. For anyone who recognizes that specific feeling: the moment before you commit to the thing you're about to do.
• Paper thickness: 10.3 mil
• Paper weight: 189 g/m²
• Opacity: 94%
• ISO brightness: 104%
• Paper is sourced from Japan
*This product is made especially for you as soon as you place an order, which is why it takes us a bit longer to deliver it to you. Making products on demand instead of in bulk helps reduce overproduction, so thank you for making thoughtful purchasing decisions!
*Artwork copyright remains with the artist.
Every great adventure begins with a little confidence and a lot of imagination.
Ta-Da features one of Mari Jae's signature wax-string figures standing proudly in the spotlight, adorned with oversized green glasses, a whimsical hat, and undeniable personality. Equal parts playful and triumphant, this contemporary art print captures the universal feeling of showing up, standing tall, and declaring, "Here I am."
The minimalist composition allows the colorful handmade figure to command attention, while the mixed typography below adds charm, humor, and a touch of childhood wonder. Whether displayed in a creative studio, dorm room, office, nursery, or modern living space, Ta-Da serves as a joyful reminder to embrace curiosity, creativity, and self-expression.
Perfect for collectors who appreciate contemporary figurative art, whimsical wall decor, and artwork that sparks conversation.
The figure mid-reveal — arms flung wide, nothing up the sleeve, everything on the line. Ta-Da is pure joy with a question buried inside it: what happens after the flourish? This print brings the full chiaroscuro depth of the original oil to archival matte paper. A statement piece for anyone who has ever taken a leap and hoped for the best.
• Original wax-string figure artwork
• Playful contemporary aesthetic
• Museum-quality reproduction
• Makes an uplifting gift for creatives and dreamers
• Brings humor and personality to modern interiors
• Paper thickness: 10.3 mil
• Paper weight: 189 g/m²
• Opacity: 94%
• ISO brightness: 104%
• Paper is sourced from Japan
This product is made especially for you as soon as you place an order, which is why it takes us a bit longer to deliver it to you. Making products on demand instead of in bulk helps reduce overproduction, so thank you for making thoughtful purchasing decisions!
*Artwork copyright remains with the artist.
Wearable Art
Art beyond the Wall
The Flower Power painting — one of the most joyful works in the series — on a lightweight flyknit athletic shoe. 100% polyester ultralight upper. EVA rubber outsole. Breathable lining. Available in black and white. These are art that runs errands, goes to the gym, and starts conversations everywhere they land.
• 100% polyester ultralight flyknit
• EVA rubber outsole
• Breathable lining
• Soft insole and a padded collar
• Lace-up front
• Soles and laces in matching colors
This product is made especially for you as soon as you place an order, which is why it takes us a bit longer to deliver it to you. Making products on demand instead of in bulk helps reduce overproduction and strain on the environment, so thank you for making thoughtful purchasing decisions!
Flower Power - Shoes
Boost your mood throughout your busy day with comfy and lightweight athletic shoes. Equipped with breathable lining, a padded collar, and rubber outsole—they’ll easily become your go-to footwear.
• 100% polyester ultralight flyknit
• EVA rubber outsole
• Breathable lining
• Soft insole and a padded collar
• Lace-up front
• Soles and laces in matching colors
This product is made especially for you as soon as you place an order, which is why it takes us a bit longer to deliver it to you. Making products on demand instead of in bulk helps reduce overproduction and strain on the environment, so thank you for making thoughtful purchasing decisions!
A wax string figure on a ceramic mug, asking exactly the question you need first thing in the morning: what are you not looking at? Lead and BPA-free ceramic. Colored rim, handle, and interior. Dishwasher and microwave safe. Available in 11 oz and 15 oz. Ten color options for the interior. A small act of attention to start the day.
• Ceramic
• 11 oz mug dimensions: 3.79″ (9.6 cm) in height, 3.25″ (8.3 cm) in diameter
• 15 oz mug dimensions: 4.69″ (11.9 cm) in height, 3.35″ (8.5 cm) in diameter
• Lead and BPA-free material
• Dishwasher and microwave safe
This product is made especially for you as soon as you place an order, which is why it takes us a bit longer to deliver it to you. Making products on demand instead of in bulk helps reduce overproduction, so thank you for making thoughtful purchasing decisions!
Look (out) - Mug
Silence - Shoes
The Artist
Where play became
a practice.
While my children were absorbed in their own imaginative worlds, I began experimenting with the wax strings they were using. Those playful forms evolved into characters, and eventually into an entire visual language about human communication.
I am fascinated by the difference between what people think, what they say, and how they understand one another.
My paintings explore that space.
The characters begin as small sculptures made from wax strings. Once sculpted, I arrange them under dramatic light and transform them into oil paintings. Through thought bubbles, speech bubbles, humor, and visual storytelling, these figures become stand-ins for all of us.
The work often appears playful. Beneath the bright colors and whimsical forms are observations about relationships, communication, social expectations, and the stories we tell ourselves.
I want viewers to smile at the characters, recognize themselves in the conversation, and leave with a new perspective on human connection.
Visit in Person
Art Oasis Natick —
a studio you can walk into.
A warm, joyous, and inspiring creative hub in Natick, MA. See original works in person, take a class, or find your next collector piece. Because some art deserves to be experienced in the room.
Stay in the loop
New work. Real stories. No noise.
