We had the good fortune of connecting with Maria Rendón and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Maria, what do you think makes you most happy? Why?
Taking a daily walk. Touching the ground in a rhythm, feeling the atmosphere, breathing the air and seeing what surrounds me (particularly at a high point in the landscape), inspires me.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My work has transformed over the years but what connects the directions I have taken, are the rituals I have adopted; as well as the sense of mystery that my paintings carry. Notions of exploration and discovery have kept me going; and even though it hasn’t always been easy, that uncertainty is what keeps me grounded.
My most recent project at Artbug Gallery, located downtown LA, is a solo exhibition of 18 paintings on paper that are inspired by my daily observations, but are transformed by recollections, struggle, and the process of painting. These pieces have their beginnings in what I call the ruins in my studio, paint that inadvertently ends up on the floor. The once ignored and neglected paint “skins” are an intrinsic part this body of work.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
My list mostly consists of art and food. Museums like The Hammer, The Broad, MOCA and LACMA have wonderful programming; as well as galleries like Chris Sharp, Mathew Brown and a recently opened space called Sea View.
In most cities I visit, I like finding its highest points to get a sense of where I am situated, so I would take them to The Getty Center, again for art, as well as a beautiful meal at their restaurant; and to the Griffith Observatory, not only for a science fix but for a magnificent view of the city.
One of my favorite places to eat is La Guelaguetza, a Oaxacan food restaurant.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Michon Weeks, a fellow artist/painter. The group of women artists collective that I belong to, Saloneras.
Jeremy Tessmer, a curator who has supported my work for years.
My husband Robert Giaimo for his endless support.
Authors Juan Rulfo and Sor Juana Inés de la Cruz who have inspired me through the years.

Website: www.mariarendon.net

Instagram: @mariarendon03

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