
Artist Biography
Born in Colombo in 1970, Maria Abeyesekere, is an internationally known self-taught oil painter from Sri Lanka, traces her artistic roots back to a lineage of artists. inspired by the works of her ancestors created by European painters during the colonial era, Maria's passion for figurative and portrait painting blossomed from a very young age. Her career soared after winning the Best Young Artist award in 1990, paving the way for prestigious commissions like the Ian and Roslin Goonetileke Collection and making waves on the international art scene. Juggling her talents with a career in marketing, Maria began painting part-time for art lovers worldwide, ultimately transitioning to a full-time artist after relocating in 2003 to the serene Central Highlands which is a sort after tourist destination in the world. While experimenting with a multitude of subject matter, keeping her art rooted in the realistic style she cherishes, Maria's meticulous brushwork has earned her international acclaim, with invitations from international galleries and institutions to exhibit and to represent Sri Lanka at prestigious art events worldwide. Maria has recently delved into a series of figurative and portrait paintings showcasing women, reflecting a sentiment of nostalgia from her childhood.

Artist's Statement
I want to share a little bit about myself and my journey as an artist. I am not just an artist, but also a keen observer who finds joy in staring at the stars and the rain. Ever since I was a young child, I had a wild imagination. I would wake up before dawn and eagerly wait under an elephant ear in my garden, convinced that fairies were painting the flowers and dwarfs were tending to them. Little did I know that those magical moments would inspire me to become the artist I am today. My dad's bedtime stories fueled my imagination and sparked my love for art. I truly believe that observation and patience are key ingredients to mastering realism in my work. Being a self-taught artist, I have honed my skills through practice and dedication.
I come from a lineage of talented artists, with my paternal grandma and her mother having a knack for creativity. Art runs through my veins and has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. From a young age, I found myself captivated by the beauty and history surrounding the ancient artifacts and paintings that have been passed down through generations in my family. The stories and emotions that were captured in each brushstroke and carving spoke to me in a way that words never could.
I was born (1970) and bred in the bustling city, but some of the fondest memories of my childhood were spent in the peaceful embrace of my grandma's country home. The sights, sounds, and smells of the countryside ignited a creative spark within me that would eventually guide me on my artistic path.
I was inspired by the radiant sunsets at the beach, the diverse wildlife that roamed the land, the earthy scents of burning clay and Copra from the nearby mills, and the refreshing breeze that whispered through the coconut groves and paddy fields along the Northwestern coast of the island.
As a young adult and working woman in the city, life was fast-paced and exciting. However, everything changed when I married and settled in the highlands, with my husband and son. Surrounded by lush tea lands and abundant wildlife, I found a new sense of peace, serenity, and inspiration that fueled my passion for art like never before.
It was in the highlands that I truly began my artistic journey, dedicating myself full-time to creating pieces that reflected the beauty, majesty, and wonder of the world around me. Every stroke of the brush, every swirl of color, and every intricate detail in my artwork is a testament to the adventure and exploration that has shaped my life and my art.
BIOGRAPHY:
Born: Colombo, Sri Lanka in 1970
Lives & Works: Dickoya, Hatton, Sri Lanka (Central Highlands)
Background: Part-time artist from 1990 - 2003
Full-time artist since 2003
Education: Self-taught as an artist / Bachelor of Business Administration
Style: Hyperrealism / Photorealism
Technique: Oil, Acrylic & Pencil