Mary Jo Svendsen has worn many hats in the art world—as an artist, educator, corporate illustrator, gallerist, and the mother of a professional artist. She currently serves as President of the Board of the Swiftwater Gallery artist cooperative on Vashon. And her son, artist Mike Leavitt, was recently interviewed on this show.

Mary Jo Svendsen graduated in 1970 with an Art Education degree from the University of Washington.  She then taught Art on Mercer Island at North Mercer Junior High and East Seattle Alternative School for seven years.  Her focus next turned tobringing up her son, Michael Leavitt, for a few years.  In 1981, she began working at the Boeing Company as a graphic illustrator, team improvement facilitator, organization consultant, and a number of years at the Boeing Leadership Center designing, managing and teaching residential leadership development programs.  Following her retirement from Boeingin 2005, she began seeking ways to re-enter the world of arts and crafts through weaving, quilting, and ultimately making fused glass creations.  She now displays her fused glass art at the Swiftwater Gallery on Vashon where she also serves as the Board President and one of the managers.

Check out the offerings at the Swiftwater Gallery during the holidays, including Mary Jo’s beautiful fused glass.