Maria Paris paints African queens in classical style

Maria Paris, of Nigerian-Lebanese descent, paints African women in classical styles, blending cultures to elevate underrepresented beauty and celebrate heritage. Visit: https://www.mariaparisfineart.com/

Maria, born in 1974 to Nigerian and Lebanese parents, discovered her love for art as a child. Her father, a high school teacher, took her to museums, where she felt inspired by the works of Renaissance masters—especially Leonardo da Vinci. These visits sparked her passion for painting and storytelling through visual art. However, as she grew older, she noticed something missing. Black women like herself were rarely shown in classical art, and when they were, they appeared in the background—faceless, voiceless.

Determined to change that, Maria studied various techniques. She learned through formal education and independent practice. By age 35, she made a bold decision. She committed to painting African women as central, powerful figures. Her goal was to give them the same grace, strength, and beauty seen in European classical works. She chose oil painting for its depth and flexibility.

Each piece takes months of careful layering and detail. Her subjects show emotion, strength, and vulnerability. Vibrant colors and dramatic contrasts draw the viewer in. Today, Maria exhibits in renowned galleries worldwide. She continues to celebrate African identity while blending it with European artistic traditions. Through her work, she aims to inspire young people and expand the space for Black stories in fine art. #contemporaryafricanart #exhibition #contemporaryart #art #blackart #blackjoy #nigeria #lebanon #beauty #africanwomen #blackwomen #africanqueen #painting #classic #paris #france