Mary Curtis began making jewellery in 1986, after completing a trade certificate in the craft. Her practice demonstrates a keen sensitivity to the visual dialogues that unfold between objects, whether on public display or at home. Small ‘conversations’ of contrast or similarity arise between these works, with their wide range of textures, shapes and weights. Her display arrangements see pieces divided into lines and clusters; using space to highlight qualities of distinction, and sameness, within the body of the collection. A love of foraging, combined with environmental concerns, informs Curtis' recent work.  'My searches,' she notes, 'have been for shapes that intrigue and materials to use: muka sourced and dyed from plants in my street; wood reclaimed from demolished buildings or fallen trees, and objects found in second hand shops.'

Curtis worked in jewellery education for over 28 years, including as a senior lecturer at Manukau Institute of Technology and at Hungry Creek Art and Design school. Her work has been widely exhibited nationally and internationally. Curtis’ work is held in the collections of The Dowse Art Museum and the Auckland Museum.