Growing up in the mountains of Santiago, Chile, abstract artist María Jose Benvenuto moved to Australia in 2018. Migrating from the crowded streets and busy atmosphere to the quiet and calming aspects of the Northern Beaches in Sydney, led to a reconnection with nature in an entirely new way. 

Using gestural brushstrokes or stains across the medium, Benvenuto focuses on line and detail to build a narration of the life around her. She draws back to significant events, the people she’s met, or the changing landscape. Fundamentally, the artist surprises herself every day, shocking herself with what’s not familiar. From the changing seasons to the sweeping ocean — she is ever surrounded by inspiration, in awe of its beauty.

Maria Jose is a Chilean artist, living and working from Sydney, AU.