Today we’d like to introduce you to Maria Ibrahim.
Hi Maria, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
As a child, whenever I was asked what I wanted to be when I grow up, my answer would unequivocally be “an artist.” Since the age of five I would constantly be coloring, drawing, painting, doodling, etc. I noticed creating art really become something I craved when I realized art was my favorite subject in school.
High school was when I really immersed myself into the art world. When choosing my classes, I always made it a point to take art every semester. It was then when I properly learned how to draw, create shadow, and envision compositions. I was exposed to different drawing techniques, painting mediums, mixing color, and all the technicalities of being an artist. I entered my artwork into local competitions and learned how artists critiqued. Sometime midway through high school, I found my sweet spot – oil painting. I resonated with oil paint because it is the most forgiving paint (by that, I mean it is very easy to cover/correct any mistakes and I was able to jump right into the canvas without hesitation.)
Fast forward to the last 7 or 8 years, I found myself only able to paint during summer and winter breaks due to being a full-time student (shoutout to UT Austin and UH Law Center). It was then when I decided to create more of an online presence by making an Instagram account and website. Instagram has served as my art portfolio where I not only post completed artworks, but I also like to share my art process and I even go “live” where followers can tune in and watch me paint.
Painting has been my source of relaxation and escape especially during my college/law school years. My family and friends have been constant supporters of me and my art and I cannot be more thankful.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
My biggest struggle has and still is finding my style. Each painting I make can be so different from the next in its own way that I keep asking myself, “What is it about my art that a passerby will recognize as a Maria Nora painting?”
Finding that characteristic or style that can be attributed to me without sacrificing or limiting potential subject matter is something I am constantly keeping in the back of my mind.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
While I mentioned that not having a “style” yet has been one of my biggest struggles, it can also be a strength because I realized how versatile my art is. Being able to switch gears, step out of my comfort zone and try something new is something I hope I never lose touch of. One day I’ll paint a representative picture of the Texas Capitol and next thing I know, I am ditching my paintbrushes and creating an abstract painting with only the use of a palette knife.
Additionally, I have branched out a bit and put some of my artwork on hoodies and t-shirts.
We’d love to hear about how you think about risk taking?
Risk taking in the art world can take shape in many forms. Whether it’s in the form of experimenting with different mediums or committing to a lifestyle change to make art a top priority, I think it can be beneficial to talk to those in the field for advise and learn from their experiences.
For example, I have always identified as being a painter. But when I was asked to create a digital cover art for a band’s album, I was a bit out of my comfort zone. Then there was the added pressure that I was creating this for someone and was worried that while I understood their expectations and wishes, that it would not translate well into this new medium. Once I got the hang of the graphic design tools, I realized the process is very similar to what I’ve always done. At the end of the day, art is art.
Pricing:
- Hoodies $45
- Sweatshirt $35
- Prints ($25-$35)
Contact Info:
- Email: Marianoraart@gmail.com
- Website: Marianoraart.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marianoraart/?hl=en
