Autumnal Rise with Maria Luisa Hernandez

Due to the insane amount of traffic that day I was running quite late to the home/studio of MARIA LUISA HERNANDEZ for the intimate reception she was having, showcasing some of her recent artwork. I eventually arrive at Maria’s apartment, slightly flustered and disheveled, but as soon as I walk in I was glad I made it - better late than never, right?

I walk around the apartment feeding my eyes with some of Maria’s amazing work. Maria draws a lot of her inspiration from autumn rains and sunsets - natural beauty; and I recognize a lot of the paintings from her website. There are some of her oil paintings, either on canvas or on linen, from her collections: Inspiratus, Aqua, Aero, Ignis and Terrae; as well as some new work from her collaboration with CATHERINE MILNER (they are working on creating luxurious properties for private clients; Catherine bringing in her expertise of architecture and design, and Maria, harmonizing artwork). Her images are even more intense in real life; some evoke a sense of calm such as Nacimiento from Aqua, and then there are more emotive pieces; Passion from Ignis literally stops me in my tracks. She covers both ends of the spectrum and her pieces make you ponder about life, love… and have even caused the occasional person to tear up.

I finally spot the lovely lady herself; and manage to steal her away from her guests for a few moments as we go upstairs to her studio for a one-to-one chat.

What is it about natural beauty that inspires you?
I feel at peace when I am surrounded by nature. It allows you to relate with your God and I am a very religious person. I am also inspired by some of the greats; Rembrandt and Michelangelo.

Your paintings evoke a sense of calm in people; do you feel that same sense of peace when painting them?
Yes of course, in many ways. Painting is the love of my life; I do it day and night. That’s why I have my studio in my house, it’s important to live with your lover. However, it does take a lot of self-discipline, focus and patience. It’s time-consuming and requires the passion for it.

What was it like to work with Catherine Milner on the recent project you had? How did you two meet?
She came to me actually. She contacted me through someone who had bought one of my paintings. It was great complementary work: the art, architecture and design and I think my paintings gave the soul of the rooms.

You have travelled around the world, from Chile to Sweden - do any cities you visit inspire you more than others?
I think the weather in the UK is actually very suitable for artists. It encourages you to be introspective and find that quiet space inside yourself. There’s something about the weather that helps definitely, despite the complaints. I also love the boats here, especially down by Cornwall, I don’t know, maybe in my past life I was a seagull.

If you weren’t an artist, what do you see yourself doing?
(laughs) I am hopeless at everything else! If I was a waitress I’d forget the orders, and I make such a mess in the kitchen I wouldn’t be a great cook. I think I’m better off as an artist.

With the great talent that she has, I’d also struggle to find a Plan B.

Text EKAETE INYANG
Photography CHUN-PIN LIN