The School of Eclectic Art began in 2003 when during a class critique, participants commented about the diverse styles of those in the classroom. 

Encouraged by the group, Mary Ann Inman planned the first School of Eclectic Art Exhibit at the Crossman Gallery on the campus at University of Wisconsin Whitewater.  Showcased directly inside the gallery doors were collaboration artworks  surrounded by individual works of watercolor, acrylic, photography, pencil, ink, found items, and mixed media. The exhibit was well attended and for many artists was a first exhibit experience.

Since then classes offered include Beginning Watercolor, Basic Drawing, Composition & Design, The Art of Color, Watercolor and Beyond, Found Items, Art Figures, and Cultivating Your Creativity.

Mary Ann's style is described as easy-going, challenging, and enthusiastic. Basic principles and techniques are studied and discussed then artists are invited to leap into their own arena of creativity. Mary Ann's participative approach creates a safe environment. She strikes a balance between taking art seriously and doing it for fun.