My name is Maureen (aka Momo) Brown, and I am a contemporary visual artist.

I call my unique design style Momos, which I apply to nearly any surface. My process involves creating playful, puzzle-like connected line art using markers and paint squeezed directly from the bottle. For me, everything has to flow in smooth, quick motions. I work without preconceived ideas, allowing each piece to emerge in the moment—something I call Momo-mento. With a Sharpie in hand and guided by Spirit, I feel free, grounded, and shielded from the stresses of daily life.

After the initial connected lines, I embellish the work with eyes, faces, and whimsical creatures—whether animals, people, or entirely imagined beings—that can be seen as individual characters or interconnected parts of a larger whole. For me, these imaginative animals serve as reminders of their presence in our world, coming to life as though floating in a multi-dimensional space—like a constellation.

All the pieces in this exhibit were mindfully created in Chapala in 2024. My abstract works reflect the energy of this vibrant Mexican city, which I’ve grown to love. The theme of Interconnectedness arose from my deep connection to the people and landscape of Lake Chapala. I’m particularly inspired by the blend of ancient and modern cultures, the lake’s magical spirit, the majestic mountains, and the rich local flora and fauna.

Growing up in San Antonio and South Texas, I was deeply influenced by Mexican culture. Like early 20th-century masters such as Pablo Picasso, I, too, have been inspired by the art of ancient civilizations.

As an archaeologist, I’ve had the privilege of working on incredible projects across Texas, Latin America, and the Caribbean. My role as a former heritage museum director and current museum professional allows me to continue educating the public and raising awareness. I collaborate with community partners to promote cultural heritage through my art, exhibiting both solo and in collaboration with museums, galleries, businesses, libraries, and universities. My work has been featured at the Instituto Cultural de Mexico and Universidad Autónoma Nacional de Mexico (UNAM) in San Antonio, Texas. I’ve also created large-scale light sculptures, including catrinas, for San Antonio’s Día de los Muertos Festival since 2013.

I first fell in love with Chapala as a participant in the 360 Xochi Quetzal Artist and Writer’s Residency Program. The Lake Chapala community charmed me, and I now split my time here. Working with the local family-run businesses is an honor—most of my art supplies, materials, and carpentry for framing are sourced locally. I’ve found incredible friends and mentors here who bring me joy and fuel my artistic endeavors.

My dream is that you, as the viewer, will join me in embracing the present moment, allowing Momos to bring a smile, spark your imagination, and awaken the playful inner child within—even if just for a brief momo-mento, as they do for me!