Mary Calkins began her studies in 1971, but shortly thereafter began to pursue other endeavors. 17 years later she returned to school to study at the Massachusetts College of Art where she earned her BFA in painting. She developed a strong interest in Native American Culture, and went on to study for a year at the Institute of American Indian Arts in Santa Fe New Mexico.

Upon completing her formal training, she pursued painting and printmaking full time. Her unique approach of incorporating collage in her creations has resulted in artistry filled with texture, color and historical influence.