Maria Paulina Atehortua: A Portrait of Becoming Where Soul Meets Canvas and Color Tells the Truth

Origins in Silence: The Art That Was Always There

Maria Paulina Atehortua didn’t set out to become an artist—her path unfolded like a quiet revelation. Born into a home humming with creativity in Colombia, art was always in the background: her father’s quiet paintings, her mother’s handmade dolls. But Maria never imagined herself behind the brush. It wasn’t until 2020, in a moment of internal ignition, that she truly stepped into her gift.

Her artistic journey began not with a plan, but with a pull. That year marked the turning point—a moment of alignment between past influences and personal awakening. The result? A powerful body of work that is deeply personal, emotionally charged, and wholly her own.

Self as Muse: The Fire Within

Unlike many artists who seek muses outside themselves, Maria’s greatest source of inspiration has always been inward. Her discovery of art wasn’t just about creating—it was about uncovering. Each canvas became a conversation between soul and surface, revealing not only what she felt, but who she was becoming.

This intrinsic process continues to evolve, pushing her beyond the limits of technique and into the realm of transformation. Art, for Maria, is not an escape from life—it is life distilled into strokes, textures, and pigments. It’s a ritual of listening, an act of self-trust, and a journey without a final destination.

Legacy in Every Line: A Father’s Unspoken Gift

Though they are often separated by distance, Maria’s artistic bond with her father is ever-present. His gentle, intuitive portrayals of the human form—especially the feminine figure—left an indelible mark on her. His influence lives in her sense of line, in her reverence for beauty, and in her belief that every curve tells a story. She dreams of a future collaboration with him, imagining a shared canvas that merges their hands, their histories, and their hearts. Until that day comes, his spirit remains in her every gesture, quiet but guiding.

Her roots are also nourished by the bold vision of José María Ocre, a fellow Colombian artist whose hometown legacy continues to inspire her craft. Through these connections, Maria threads her cultural identity into every piece, honoring where she comes from even as she carves her own creative lane.

The Language of Color: Identity on Canvas

To view Maria’s work is to witness emotion materialize through pigment. She employs palette knives, brushes, oils, and acrylics in ways that feel both intuitive and deliberate. Her portraits balance the real and the abstract—each one teetering on the edge of clarity and dream.

But perhaps the most potent element in her toolbox is color. For Maria, color is never decorative—it is declarative. Skin tones in her portraits are not fixed or literal but fluid, layered, symbolic. They speak to experience, identity, vulnerability, and pride. Every hue is chosen with purpose; every shade carries weight.

There’s no singular way to define her aesthetic, and that’s the point. Her style isn’t a genre—it’s a fingerprint. Unmistakable, evolving, and deeply human.

From Canvas to Community: Where You’ll Find Her Work

As her audience grows, so too does Maria’s artistic reach. Her upcoming website, MPARTE.COM, is set to be a dynamic space housing original works, fine-art prints, and limited-edition merchandise—all designed to bring her vision into new homes, onto new walls, and into new hearts.

In addition to her online presence, Maria exhibits her work through Ovono Agency, a platform that champions vibrant, meaningful art. Together with Cannavita, a cultural hub that blends art and community, she continues to expand her audience and deepen her impact.

For real-time glimpses into her studio and mural-making process, her Instagram, @Pauli__1, is a must-follow. It’s where she shares not only what she creates, but why she creates—bringing followers into her world with rawness and beauty.

Alive in the Moment: Events, Murals & Magic

Maria is no stranger to live performance—though her stage is a canvas and her instrument is color. She often paints in real time at local events, offering onlookers a front-row seat to the birth of a painting. These experiences become immersive rituals, blurring the line between artist and audience.

In April, she led a whimsical art class with New York High Club, guiding guests through a playful alien-themed session that married technique with joy. And just a month prior, she shared the walls of Cannavita with fellow artist Natalie Bedon for a memorable dual exhibition—an evening where energy, elegance, and expression converged.

Wearing Her Art: Collaborations That Empower

Maria’s vision doesn’t stop at canvas. Her latest collaboration with Capudimontty, a fashion brand that uplifts female artisans, takes her work into wearable territory. Together, they are crafting a collection of hand-painted denim jackets—each piece a walking story, each design a tribute to resilience and craftswomanship.

And as the featured artist for Viva Piñata Fest, she continues to celebrate cultural unity through live art, color, and rhythm. Her presence turns events into experiences, and murals into memory.

She’s also lovingly transforming El Poblado, a Colombian restaurant in Queens, into a living art installation. Every wall is a tribute to her homeland. With every visit, the space evolves—a visual diary of heritage, flavor, and imagination.

The Journey Continues: Follow Her Flame

Maria Paulina Atehortua is more than an artist—she is a vessel of vulnerability, strength, and transformation. Her work is a meditation on identity, a celebration of roots, and a call to authenticity. Every painting is an invitation to feel more deeply and see more clearly.

To stay connected with her evolving journey—projects, shows, collections, and behind-the-scenes magic—follow her on Instagram at @Pauli__1. And keep an eye out for the official launch of MPARTE.COM—a digital home for her growing universe of art.

Maria is not just creating art

She’s creating space—for truth, for beauty, for becoming.

Interview with Maria Paulina Atehortua

When did you begin your journey as an artist, and where did it all start?

I began my journey as an artist in 2020. I am a self-taught artist, and I believe I inherited my artistic talent from my father. Ever since I was a child, I watched him paint, although he was never able to pursue a formal career in art, as he spent most of his life working in a leather company. I also remember my mother making rag dolls to support our family. Despite growing up around creativity, I was never particularly interested in drawing or painting. To be honest, I never imagined I would be capable of creating the kind of artworks I make today. So while my artistic path officially started five years ago, I feel that art has always been running through my veins.

What was your main source of inspiration to pursue a career in art?

My greatest source of inspiration has been myself. The moment I discovered my gift, it awakened a fire within me that hasn’t stopped burning. Painting became a way to listen to my soul, to express what words could not. With each brushstroke, I realize there is still so much within me to uncover. This journey of creation continues to inspire me—not only to grow as an artist, but to evolve as a human being.

Which artists do you collaborate with or draw inspiration from?

One of my greatest inspirations is my father. Although we haven’t yet had the chance to collaborate—since he lives in Colombia and my visits home are always too brief—I carry his influence with me in every brushstroke. I know that when the right moment comes, a meaningful piece will be born from our shared hands, a father and daughter united through art.

My admiration for the beauty of the human form, especially the feminine figure, comes from him. He has a way of capturing the female body with such subtle, divine lines—it’s delicate, expressive, and filled with soul.

Additionally, my personal designs are deeply inspired by a remarkable Colombian artist from my hometown: José María Ocre, whose vision continues to influence my artistic voice.

Do you have a distinct style or theme in your work? If so, how would you describe it?

I’m not sure if my style can be called “distinct,” as many artists may use similar techniques—but what truly makes my work unique is the soul behind each piece. Every artwork is created entirely by hand and tells a personal story. I use palette knives, brushes, oil paints, and vibrant acrylics to craft portraits that are both realistic and abstract. Each color I choose carries meaning; the varied tones of skin I paint represent identity, emotion, and experience. For me, color is not just a visual element—it is a language that speaks of strength, vulnerability, and the beauty of being human.

Where can people view or purchase your artwork?

I’m thrilled to share that I’m in the final stages of launching my website, MPARTE.COM. There you’ll soon find an ever-growing collection of fine-art prints, original pieces, merchandise, and other creative projects I’ve been pouring my heart into.

For a behind-the-scenes look, visit my Instagram @Pauli__1, where I regularly post videos of my painting and mural process.

I’m also proud to exhibit my work through the wonderful Ovono Agency, which partners with Cannavita, a vibrant space dedicated to art and community. Together, we’re bringing my pieces to an even wider audience—so stay tuned for upcoming shows and releases!

What are some of the most recent exhibitions or shows you’ve participated in?

I’m frequently invited to paint live at local events and restaurants, which allows me to connect directly with the community through art. On April 20, I hosted a fun and creative class with the amazing team from New York High Club, where we painted a playful alien with a light-hearted twist—it was an unforgettable and uplifting experience!

My most recent exhibition took place on March 28, where I had the pleasure of showcasing my work alongside the talented Natalie Bedon at Cannavita.

What projects are you currently working on or have planned for the near future?

Right now, I’m working on a beautiful collaboration with a brand I truly admire, Capudimontty. I deeply respect their mission—each garment is handcrafted by women who are heads of their households, providing meaningful employment and empowering them to support their families. Together, we’re creating a collection of denim jackets featuring original hand-painted designs by me.

I’m also the featured artist for Viva Piñata Fest, a vibrant celebration that brings different cultures together through music, color, and creativity. Painting live at this event is always a magical experience.

In addition, I continue to work on the evolving artistic transformation of El Poblado, one of the most beloved Colombian restaurants in Queens, New York. Every wall reflects my heritage, and with each new idea that comes to mind—no matter how wild—I keep adding to the space. It’s a living canvas, and a piece of my heart is painted into every corner.

How can people stay updated on your latest work and follow your journey?

The best way to stay connected and follow my artistic journey is through Instagram. I regularly share moments from my day-to-day life, as well as videos of my creative process. It’s where I express myself most freely and keep my community updated with everything I’m working on. You can find me at @Pauli__1—I’d love to have you be part of the journey!