Contemporary landscape oil painter Mary Jo Van Dell was born in 1958 in St. Paul, Minnesota. With intuitiveness, desire and natural ability as her guides, she started at a young age on her quest to become an artist. Today she has carved out a career in the arts painting full time, while remaining self-taught. Her talents as an artist are diverse, but at this point in her career she is focused and devoted to painting landscapes.

Van Dell is admittedly seduced by the brooding landscape, and finds inspiration in the woods, lakes, prairies, coasts and wilderness areas of northern Minnesota, Canada and beyond. Her paintings are recognized by her minimalist technique, limited use of palette and often somber and moody sense. With pronounced simplification and harmonious clarity she is able to captivate her audience emotionally and has gained a strong following of collectors and admirers.

She has exhibited and been part of many solo and group shows throughout the United States. Along with several awards, she has been invited to and attended residencies including an International Artist Residency in Newfoundland, Canada and Isle Royale National Park on Lake Superior. Her work is part of many private and public collections including the National Park Service and The Minnesota Historical Society.