Maria was born in Paarl in 1972, but were mostly raised in Gauteng. She is married to Francois and is a mother of three children.

Although she has no formal training in painting, it was, is and always will be part of her life. She grew up with an artist mother, experiencing all forms of creativity.

She also holds a Business Management Diploma, Website Design Diploma, did a 2 year photography course in London (England), and is also a qualified hair stylist.

Maria always had a fascination with God’s creation, and a love for drawing since childhood.  In 2005, Maria started painting full time.  Within the first two years, her works was exhibited in six very well-known galleries nationwide, and she became their top selling artist!