About
Maria C. Rhone
is an artist based in Western North Carolina with decades of experience as an artist and art teacher. Maria typically paints in acrylic and watercolor, though she also draws in pencil, charcoal, and ink, depending on what the scene calls for. Her inspiration primarily comes from God’s creation and the wonder of the world around her. Local flora, small details in nature, and vibrant landscapes along with Scripture passages provide endless inspiration. Throughout Scripture, God demonstrates the paradox of ordinary moments turning into
sacred moments. Many of my recent pieces are reflections of this idea. When God touches a person or is present, we catch glimpses of Heaven. I use everyday images and scenes with the hope of drawing viewers into a sacred space. The use of color, contrast, and light is important in achieving this. My hope in creating these pieces is to point the viewer back to God.
Maria was accepted into a fine arts program but, instead, achieved a BA in Art Education (Buffalo State College). While there, Maria received the Dean of Arts and Humanities Creative Associates Award, given to only one person in each art department. Maria has taught Kindergarten through 12th grade as well as undergraduate courses. She continues to give private art lessons and create art though she stepped out of the classroom to raise a family.
Galleries, Shows, and Sales
Maria’s work
has been on display in many galleries and shows at exhibits including the following:
• Capital Normal University (Beijing, China)
• The Burchfield Penney Art Center (Buffalo, NY)
• The Black Mountain Center for the Arts (Black Mountain, NC)
• Eikon Gallery (Asheville, NC)
• The Enchanted Oak (Black Mountain, NC)
In addition to shows, Maria’s work is available for purchase in The Enchanted Oak shop and on Etsy. For commissions, please reach Maria at her email address: art “@” mariacrhone.com.
Maria also collaborates with her husband on a children’s picture book series about a cat who is recently adopted and traveling the world. The first installment of the series is available as Firenze: The First Adventure of a Kitty and Her Family.
Throughout Scripture, God demonstrates the paradox of ordinary moments turning into sacred moments. Many of my recent pieces are reflections of this idea. When God touches a person or is present, we catch glimpses of Heaven.