Meet Maria Vanik: Chicago’s Newest Studio Artist

“I look for different colors, rainbows and surprises. I use marker and crayons.  I get my paper ready in the morning.”Maria Vanik Brand new Chicago Studio artist, Maria Vanik, has had a passion for art throughout her life.   She has an eye for color, and enjoys working on drawings, collage, and fibers pieces.  When speaking about a drawing, Maria said, “This one has bright colors, here, the flowers, the sun, the tree.  I’m done already.”  She especially enjoys latch hook! She is highly observant, and draws from the world around her for inspiration. And her eye for color is active in her choice of outfits, painted nails, and jewelry as well.  [[{“fid”:”12749″,”view_mode”:”default”,”fields”:{“format”:”default”,”field_file_image_alt_text[und][0][value]”:”Maria sitting at her desk holding up a drawing on green paper with abstract designs”,”field_file_image_title_text[und][0][value]”:”Maria showing off her artwork at her desk”},”type”:”media”,”link_text”:null,”attributes”:{“alt”:”Maria sitting at her desk holding up a drawing on green paper with abstract designs”,”title”:”Maria showing off her artwork at her desk”,”height”:366,”width”:652,”class”:”media-element file-default”}}]]  Maria joined the Arts of Life in May of 2017, after working for many years at Seguin and the Town of Cicero.  She continues to work part time there, and takes pride in keeping up with office work.     Maria is settling in quite well, and already working on building relationships with her fellow artists.  She refers to many of them as extended family now.  She chose a seat in the back of the studio, where she can see everything that happens throughout the day.  “I like it here.  I have peace and quiet.  I can do my drawing much better!” Outside of work, Maria enjoys spending time with her family and friends.  She takes special pride in taking care of their pet chihuahuas.  She does puzzles and word searches and has volunteered at the Pilsen Public Library.  Now that it is nice outside, she is looking forward to going out on picnics. At her first orientation, peers mostly commented on how kind and friendly Maria is!  We’re all so glad to have her as a part of the community.  And we are excited to continue to get to know her!