Born in Guangzhou, China in 1964, Mary Mai developed a desire for fine art as a child. From age of 14, she was encouraged to further her career when she  received a scholarship for formal art training while at the school. Immigrated to New Zealand with Ben Ho in 1988. Since 1992, she started to exhibited her art widely in New Zealand. Also help Ben Ho give art tutorial. 

She has won several New Zealand art Award including the professional category at Royal Easter Show in 1995 and 1996.