Artist Biography

       Maja’s inspirations are drawn from delicate cultural influences and traditions of country of her origin, as well as her family traditions. Her birthplace, beautiful European city of Mostar in Bosnia and Herzegovina, enriched her young mind with its strong ethnic diversity and historical architectural treasures. Her own diverse family influences embedded many traditions and individual upbringing.  

       In her early twenties, Maja chooses to flee the war affected homeland and preserve what was once beautiful in her memory.

       After few years of uncertainty, Maja reunites with her family in Cumberland, Maryland, United States.  What she calls “a new beginning” brings new choices and possibilities. Here, she certifies her artistic talent gaining a BFA degree, majoring in painting and sculpture, as well as obtaining Teaching Certification at Frostburg State University. Along come many exhibitions, awards, recognitions and publications.

       As her life leads her on to the neighbouring country of Canada, she gradually continues concurring the art stage in United States, former Yugoslavia and now Canada, as well.

       Maja is a very versatile, sophisticated and prolific artist. Her major series include ‘Colours of Sensuality and Colours of Masculinity’ the two long term watercolour series. Her watercolour ‘Landscapes Studies’ and ‘Still Life Harmonies’ although different in subject matter feature same vibrant colours and emotional impact as her figurative art. One of the new series ‘Memories of Grandma’s Lace, Ceramic Bowls’ confirm Maja’s recognizable style in three-dimensional form featuring similar lines, colours, textures and organic shapes. Maja’s artwork would be incomplete without her signature portrait and commissioned portrait studies that started her early carrier. Finally, Maja does not shy away from extending her talent in other areas as well.

“The moment my artistic expression pours out of me and fills papers and canvases with colourful images, contrasts and endless emotions; or perhaps it transforms a piece of clay into a three dimensional intricacy of shapes, lines, textures and colours is a moment that defines me.”     
                                                                                                                                                                           

                                                                                                                                                                             Maja Paunovic

​

​