Today we’d like to introduce you to Maria Jose Benvenuto.
Hi Maria, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today.
My journey in the art world began with a deep passion for visual art and creativity. I embarked on my artistic path by studying visual art at the Catholic University of Chile, where I honed my skills and nurtured my artistic vision. Throughout my studies, I immersed myself in various artistic mediums, exploring different techniques and styles to express my ideas.
As my passion for art grew, I started showcasing my work through exhibitions both in Chile and internationally. I had the privilege of exhibiting my artwork in prominent art spaces in Chile and Miami, where I had the opportunity to connect with other artists and art enthusiasts. These experiences allowed me to refine my artistic voice and expand my network within the art community.
In 2019, I made a significant decision to move to Australia to further pursue my artistic career. Shortly after arriving, I was fortunate to join M. Contemporary Gallery, an esteemed gallery known for promoting talented artists and their unique visions. Working with M. Contemporary Gallery has been an enriching experience, as it has provided me with valuable exposure to a wider audience and allowed me to collaborate with fellow artists and curators who share my passion for art.
Building on this momentum, I also established collaborations with different galleries around the world. From London to Belgium, France, Spain and even Philadelphia, I had the privilege of showcasing my artwork in various international art scenes. These opportunities not only allowed me to expand my artistic horizons but also exposed me to diverse perspectives and artistic influences from different cultures.
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?
I consider myself fortunate that my artistic journey has been relatively smooth, filled with perseverance and effort.
However, like any path, there were challenges along the way that I had to overcome. One of the most significant struggles I faced early on was the financial constraint when I first started. As an aspiring artist, I couldn’t afford a large studio space to work in, which initially posed a challenge for me. Working with large formats and simultaneously creating multiple paintings is something I am truly passionate about. So, not being able to have that ideal setup was a bit disappointing at the beginning.
Despite this hurdle, I refused to let it discourage me. Instead, I adapted to my circumstances and made the most of the resources available to me. I found ways to optimize my workspace and organize my creative process efficiently. By maximizing the potential of a smaller studio, I was still able to produce meaningful artwork and stay true to my artistic vision.
Throughout my journey, I have learned that challenges can be catalysts for growth and innovation. Over time, as my artwork gained recognition and I started exhibiting internationally, opportunities began to unfold. With each exhibition and collaboration, I was able to showcase my art on a larger scale, sometimes even beyond what I had initially imagined.
I believe that timing played a significant role in my journey. Things seemed to fall into place at the perfect moment. The hard work, dedication, and perseverance I put into my craft gradually paid off, leading to the right connections and opportunities presenting themselves.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
As a visual artist, I am driven by my immense creativity and a deep passion for self-expression. I primarily specialize in abstract paintings, as I find great joy in exploring the realms of expressionism through art. Abstract art allows me to delve into the interplay of colors, textures, and forms, creating pieces that evoke emotions and invite viewers to interpret and connect with the artwork on a personal level.
Throughout my artistic journey, I have developed a distinctive style characterized by bold brushwork, vibrant palettes, and dynamic compositions. I strive to create artworks that ignite a sense of curiosity and captivate the imagination of the viewer. Each painting is an exploration of the limitless possibilities of abstraction, where I allow myself the freedom to express emotions and concepts in a visually captivating manner.
In addition to my work in abstract painting, I have recently begun exploring the realm of sculpture. This interest emerged from the curiosity and inquiries of admirers of my artwork who were captivated by the depth and texture present in my paintings. This new avenue of creativity allows me to bring my artistic vision into the three-dimensional space, further pushing the boundaries of my expression.
What does success mean to you?
To me, success is a multifaceted concept that encompasses various aspects of my journey as a visual artist. It is a culmination of creativity, perseverance, positivity, luck, collaborations, community, and kindness.
Creativity is at the core of my definition of success. The ability to express my unique artistic vision and push the boundaries of my creativity is a significant measure of achievement. Success lies in the satisfaction of creating artwork that resonates with others and evokes emotions, sparking a connection between the viewer and the artwork.
Perseverance is another vital element of success. The artistic path is not without its challenges, and perseverance allows me to overcome obstacles, learn from setbacks, and keep pursuing my artistic goals. It is through perseverance that I can continually grow, improve my skills, and achieve greater heights as an artist.
Positivity plays a crucial role in defining success. Maintaining a positive mindset allows me to approach my art with enthusiasm and an open heart. It enables me to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, learn from criticism, and maintain a sense of joy and fulfillment in the creative process.
Luck also plays a part in success, as fortuitous moments and opportunities often arise unexpectedly. While hard work and dedication are essential, being in the right place at the right time can open doors and present new possibilities. I acknowledge the role of luck in my journey and am grateful for the fortunate circumstances that have come my way.
Collaborations are an integral part of success. Through collaborations with other artists, curators, and art enthusiasts, I can expand my artistic network, gain diverse perspectives, and create meaningful connections within the art community. Collaborations foster growth, expose me to new ideas and allow for the exchange of knowledge and inspiration.
Community is essential in my definition of success. Building a supportive artistic community helps me thrive as an artist. Engaging with fellow artists, art organizations, and the local community creates a sense of belonging, encourages learning, and provides opportunities for shared experiences and growth. Success is not just about individual achievements but also about contributing to and enriching the artistic community as a whole.
Kindness is a fundamental aspect of success for me. Treating others with kindness and respect fosters positive relationships, collaboration, and a supportive environment. Success is not solely about personal achievements but also about uplifting and inspiring others, fostering a sense of camaraderie, and creating a positive impact through my art and interactions with others.
In summary, success, for me, is the harmonious blend of creativity, perseverance, positivity, luck, collaboration, community, and kindness. It is the continuous pursuit of artistic growth, the ability to connect with others through my artwork, and making a positive contribution to the artistic community and the world at large.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.mariajosebenvenuto.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mariajosebenvenuto/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/mjbenvenuto
