(c)2009 NPT PHOTO BY DAVID POPIEL

Cosby artist Mary Todd Beam, at right, presented a copy of her newest book to Stokely
Memorial Library. Librarian Meschlyn Barrett accepted the book to add to the collection
of art books. Beam is an internationally known watercolor artist who published "The
Creative Edge" in March 2009.

As a practicing artist for more than 40 years, Mary Todd Beam is content to continue recreating her experience in watercolors at her secluded cabin home on Cosby.

Her most recent book that details her methods and ideas, "The Creative Edge" is now available in the Stokely Memorial Library after she donated a copy in Sept. The book is already known internationally and was recently printed in a Dutch version.

For more than 20 years she and husband, Don Beam, have lived on Cricket Hollow Way in their 150-year-old log cabin. She still instructs workshops, paints, but vows not to publish any more books.

Her first book, "Celebrate Your Creative Self," was published in 2001 and presented at a book signing at the Cosby branch of Newport Federal Bank. The book has sold more than 63,000 copies across the world.

"The new book has already gotten 15 rave reviews. People who own the first book want this one too," she said. And it might be the most practical way for people to learn watercolor techniques, especially as the artist is slowing down.

At one time she did at least 10 workshops across the nation and also in Africa. Alaska, and Mexico. She plans only about four and none to which she has to fly. "I'm turning down one a week."

What she will continue to do is to bring her art and techniques to the students at Cosby High School. She works with art instructor Kim Smith and plans a program this fall.

Last year she was honored when the Chinese selected 24 American artists to appear in an international art exhibit. Beam was one of the select group. During her 40 years as an artist she has gained many honors. A member of the American Watercolor Society she won the Gold Medal of Honor in 1996 and 2002.

She has a most distinct style that she labels, "contemporary impressionistic." She also uses themes such as women, and the empty nest syndrome. She teaches her technique at Arrowmont in Gatlinburg and is on the schedule for Aug. 2010.

Born in Dayton, Ohio, on President Lincoln's birthday, She began painting as a child. Her hometown friend, Don Beam, later became her husband. They have enjoyed traveling and camping and spent many years in the Smoky Mountains at which time they discovered Cosby.

Her advice to young artists looking for subject matter is simple: "Look down at your feet. The whole world is there."