Maria Vanik

Studio Member since 2017

Born in Chicago in 1970, Maria Vanik has been a member of the Chicago Studio since 2017. While she has a background in experimenting with fiber and sculpture materials, her prolific studio practice is primarily based in drawing. Vanik expands on references ranging from found imagery to pop culture to personal memories through the inclusion of patterns and vibrant colors, paired with a distinct approach to symbolism and mark-making. 

Vanik’s work has been included in EXPO Chicago, the Outsider Art Fair in NYC, and Circle Contemporary group exhibitions, including Bouquet, Dog Show, Entrelazar, All Well and Good, and Electric Pink Lemonade.

“I like to make artwork. The colors are very very bright. I like to use markers to draw raindrops, a rainbow, a tree. Next time I will do it different. I like to start with a white blank background. I like to use bright colors with dark colors. I like to use a lot of them, and mix them together.”

Check out Maria’s 2020 Artist of the Month interview here.