Vicki Maenza

I am a painter, primarily abstract in design, often with a reference to place or object to an underlying narrative.  I compose my work with a variety of medium,  paint and other water based materials which lends to layering and collage. My process is more intuitive than formulaic which I find requires a greater degree of presence. 

My background in social work and the practice of art therapy with victims of abuse led to a deeper understanding of the power of self expression without judgement.  This is what I struggle to allow myself as I create.  The evidence of that striving and imperfection reveal a certain truth and vulnerability and a bridge to the next work. 

I continue to be inspired by the life force of nature  evidenced by the branching of trees, the web of a spider, veins of a leaf or hand.  My current work is an exploration I call "spiritual landscape," a practice that is also leading me to return  to themes I have  previously explored in all the years of painting but  with new eyes and deeper connection.