Mary Jo Austin received her BA in Art Education at the University of Maryland, followed by a Masters in Painting from Montclair University. She taught art for many years, and is now a full-time artist, President of the Ocean County Artists' Guild, a member of the American Artists' Professional League and the National Arts Educators Association, Manasquan River Group of Artists, Laurelton Art Association, and more. Her paintings have been published in Shore Arts Magazine in 1995 and in Jersey Shore Vacation Magazine in 2003 and 2005. She actively participates in juried shows and has had several solo shows.

Mary Jo uses vibrant colors and bold brushstrokes, capturing the natural beauty of the Jersey shoreline, the people and wildlife there. Most of her paintings are of specific areas on the Jersey shore: the wetlands, hidden coves, rivers and bay, the beaches and boardwalks. The scenes often bring back fond memories to the viewer, of days sailing on the bay, lounging on the beach or walking on one of the many boardwalks still standing on some of the small town beaches. Giclée prints and original oils and acrylics are available at the Anchor & Palette Gallery.