I am a professor of cultural studies and communications at two universities.  After I started teaching, I took up gardening as a serious hobby.  I've been growing irises for about 17 years.  In 2017,  I started Stormy Weather Iris Gardens.  I'm from Missouri, where we have lots of stormy weather (Missouri is part of "Tornado Alley") and irises are plentiful in the spring.

In 2021, Stormy Weather Iris Gardens became an official HIPS (Historic Iris Preservation Society) Display Garden.  We are one of only two in the state of Virginia.

For several years, I have pursued an interest in floral photography and I have exhibited my work nationally in 24 states.

I love working with healthcare organizations, and I am a strong supporter of the arts in healthcare. Some of my pieces have been featured in permanent galleries in hospitals that have earned top rankings in the prestigious U.S. News & World Report 's: America's Best Hospitals. Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Hollings Cancer Center, and the University of Iowa Hospital are just a few of the hospitals where I have had work on display.

I also operate "Mary Cleo's", an Etsy store that sells handcrafted (made by me) garden decor/art.  You can see the current inventory here - www.marycleos.com

I look forward to meeting you at the next Open House!
Shana