Maria Valehrach

Artist Statement

Every painting tells a story. Stories Connect us. Connections fulfill us.

Stories are a powerful means of connection because we connect not only with the story but also with the storyteller.

After every piece I create, I write a few lines about the painting. It might be about the scene or subject and why it inspired me, or where it was, what was happening in my life at the time, etc. I then attach it to the finished work. It's the story of that particular painting, kind of like its own fingerprint or DNA, and every painting has one.

When you look at one of my paintings and read its story, it's as though you and I are also making a connection. This is incredibly fulfilling for me and I hope for you, too! And, when you hang the piece on your wall and walk past it each day, I hope it brings you that same joy and fulfillment for the rest of your life!