Maria-Victoria Checa is a Washington, DC–based contemporary artist known for vibrant abstract paintings, luminous water reflections, and modern impressionist landscapes inspired by nature, color, and movement.

Born to a Nicaraguan father and Parisian mother, Checa was raised in France by her French grandparents. Her paintings explore expressive color, atmosphere, and movement, often blurring the boundary between abstraction and landscape.

Working from her studio in Bethesda, MD, Checa creates original paintings inspired by reflections, forests, flower fields, and imagined natural environments filled with luminous color and textured movement. Her paintings are collected across the United States and internationally.

Maria-Victoria Checa began painting in 2018 while preparing her home for rent, creating large abstract works to stage the space and quickly discovering a deep passion for the process.

Before becoming a full-time artist, Checa taught mathematics at American University and Montgomery College while continuing to paint and develop her artistic voice.

In January 2022, she transitioned to working as a full-time artist, dedicating herself entirely to painting and studio work.

Since then, her work has been exhibited in galleries and exhibitions across the Washington, DC region and beyond. One of her paintings was commissioned for the lobby of the Waldorf Astoria Chicago, where it forms part of the hotel’s interior design collection.

ARTIST’S STATEMENT

In my abstract paintings, I explore freedom, movement, and transformation through color, texture, and dynamic composition. I am drawn to the emotional power of color and the way layered paint can create depth and energy within a surface.

In my impressionist landscapes, I aim to evoke serenity, wonder, and joy. Many of these works depict imagined gardens, forests, and reflective waters inspired by nature.

I often work with painting knives, squeegees, and unconventional tools rather than traditional brushes. These techniques allow me to create rich textures and layered marks that give the paintings a sense of movement and life.

A recurring comment from collectors and viewers is the uplifting and joyful atmosphere of the work — something that continues to inspire my studio practice.