Artist Maria Arias presents a striking collection of figurative and animal portraits that evoke deep emotion. See more by visiting her website.
“Cat Galaxy Dream, acrylic and oil on Ampersand Claybord, 50cm x 70cm
Painting is transformational for me. When I paint and see what I can achieve, it makes me feel powerful. On bad days, painting helps dissipate any storm in my mind. Even after a painting is finished, its effect remains. Looking at my artwork brings me a sense of peace, as if the emotions I poured into it stay alive within the pieces.
“Jules” acrylic on Ampersand Claybord, 40cm x 50cm
I was born in Venezuela, then moved to France, and eventually settled in the Netherlands. I have been painting professionally since 2016, though I experienced a long period when my inspiration and talent seemed lost. It was thanks to the life I built in the Netherlands that I was able to rediscover myself and embrace my art again.
“Eirene” oil on Ampersand Claybord, 40cm x 50cm
I studied chemical engineering. Although I consider myself a good engineer, my true passion lies in painting and teaching others how to paint. I remember one particularly moving moment when a tough man of 50 plus cried as I delivered the recently commissioned portrait of his deceased dog.
“Stich” mixed media (acrylic, soft pastels and Aquarelle pencils) on Liquid paper, 60cm x 80cm
That kind of emotional connection will never happen when delivering an engineering project. It was such a profound experience, that love energy—I can’t fully explain it in words. Moments like this happen often when I deliver a painting.
“Fox” acrylic on Ampersand Claybord, 50cm x 70cm
My happiest moments as a child were spent with animals or friends, and as I grew up, they continued to play an important role in my life. They are my source of inspiration.
“Artemis” oil on Ampersand Claybord, 40cm x 50cm
My desire to help people, to bring them joy, and to witness those profound moments when a client receives one of my paintings is deeply fulfilling. Even years after a painting is sold, many clients stay in touch to remind me how much that artwork means to them.
“Love” acrylic on super smooth canvas, 60cm x 80cm
I mix colours to make them as natural as possible and use bold, confident strokes. I don’t paint every hair or feather in detail, because doing so would flatten the composition. Instead, I create depth by carefully adding and omitting details. I also feel a deep connection with the subject I am painting. Often, I find myself complimenting them as if there is something alive within them.
“Raw” oil on super smooth canvas, 70cm x 90cm
I love to use dramatic lighting and paint based on reference pictures.
“Homecoming” acrylic on Ampersand Claybord, 50cm x 70cm
I believe rules stifle creativity. When I paint, I don’t follow strict guidelines. My only goal is to create beautiful artwork that evokes deep feelings and promotes love and appreciation for animals and women.
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