Meet Maria Jose Benvenuto | Visual artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Maria Jose Benvenuto and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Maria Jose, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
I pursued an artistic or creative career primarily for the freedom it offers in expressing oneself through artistic mediums. It allows me to complement my life with family, sports, and travel, ultimately enabling me to embrace a sense of freedom in all aspects of my life.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?

My art is an exploration of the intersection between emotion, perception, and existence, expressed through abstract compositions that transcend traditional boundaries. What sets my work apart is its deeply intuitive and organic nature, reflecting a unique visual language shaped by my personal experiences and innermost thoughts.

I am most proud of the evolution of my artistic style and the ability to create pieces that resonate with viewers on a profound level. Each artwork is a testament to my dedication to pushing the boundaries of creative expression and experimentation.

My journey to where I am today professionally has been anything but easy. Like many artists, I faced numerous challenges along the way, from self-doubt to financial instability. However, through perseverance, resilience, and unwavering passion, I overcame these obstacles and emerged stronger than ever.

One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is the value of authenticity and staying true to oneself as an artist. It’s essential to trust your instincts, embrace failure as a stepping stone to growth, and never compromise on your artistic vision.

What I want the world to know about me and my paintings is that they are a reflection of my innermost thoughts, emotions, and experiences. It’s a journey of self-discovery and exploration, inviting viewers to engage in a dialogue with the universal themes of existence and the human condition. Ultimately, my goal is to inspire others to embrace their creativity, follow their passions, and find beauty in the complexity of the world around us.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Living in Manly offers a plethora of opportunities for an amazing week-long itinerary. Here’s a tailored plan for an unforgettable experience in your own backyard:

Day 1:

Morning: Start the day with a sunrise stroll along Manly Beach, taking in the breathtaking views of the ocean and feeling the soft sand between your toes.
Breakfast: Head to one of the beachside cafes along the Corso for a delicious breakfast overlooking the water. Try a classic Aussie brekkie or indulge in some smashed avocado on toast.
Afternoon: Spend the afternoon exploring the scenic Manly to Spit Bridge Coastal Walk. This picturesque trail offers stunning views of the coastline, secluded beaches, and native bushland.
Dinner: Enjoy a seafood feast at one of the renowned restaurants along the Manly Wharf, sampling fresh local catches while watching the sunset over the harbor.
Day 2:

Morning: Take a ferry ride across Sydney Harbour to Circular Quay. From there, explore the iconic sights of Sydney, such as the Sydney Opera House and the Royal Botanic Garden.
Lunch: Grab a bite to eat at one of the trendy cafes in The Rocks or Barangaroo precincts, offering a wide range of culinary delights.
Afternoon: Visit the Art Gallery of New South Wales or the Museum of Contemporary Art to immerse yourself in the vibrant arts and culture scene of Sydney.
Dinner: Return to Manly and dine at one of the bustling restaurants along The Corso, enjoying a delicious meal in a lively atmosphere.
Day 3:

Morning: Start the day with a surf lesson at Manly Beach, learning from experienced instructors how to catch the perfect wave.
Lunch: Refuel with a healthy lunch at one of the beachside eateries, serving up fresh salads, wraps, and smoothie bowls.
Afternoon: Explore the shops and boutiques along The Corso, picking up some unique souvenirs and locally made crafts.
Dinner: Treat yourself to a fine dining experience at one of Manly’s upscale restaurants, savoring gourmet dishes paired with fine wines.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?

First and foremost, I would like to dedicate my shoutout to my parents for giving me the opportunity to study visual arts, despite their initial reservations about the challenges of pursuing a career in art. They believed in me and trusted my passion, and I am endlessly grateful for their unwavering support.

I also want to extend my gratitude to my university and my professors at the Universidad Católica de Chile, who provided me with the platform to delve deeper into various artistic techniques and art history. Their guidance and mentorship have been invaluable in shaping my artistic journey.

To my husband, I owe a debt of gratitude for his unwavering support and belief in me. He has always been by my side, encouraging me in all aspects of my artistic pursuits.

Lastly, I want to recognize the galleries with whom I currently collaborate. Their ongoing support and dedication have played a significant role in my professional growth as an artist, and I am thankful for the opportunities they continue to provide me to expand my artistic career year after year.

Website: www.mariajosebenvenuto.com

Instagram: mariajosebenvenuto

Image Credits
Josefina Vargas