This month, we are delighted to feature the art of Manny A. Maldonado.
How would you describe your work?
I use acrylic paints to fuse together the styles of impressionism and sketching. My brush strokes are bold and loose while my sketching is free flowing and intricate. I use a vibrant palette and a playful interplay of colors to evoke the everchanging mood of nature. Each brush stroke and each sketch capture a fleeting moment, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in the dynamic beauty of the landscapes I paint.
My end goal is to create a visual experience that transports the viewer into the heart of these scenes.
What sets me apart as an artist is my freedom and refusal to conform. As an impressionist, I specialize in landscapes, animals and buildings, but I always paint what I want, the way I want. I don’t stick to traditional rules or expectations – I use whatever colors feel right to me at the moment.
Even though my paintings are beautiful, there’s a sense of rebellion beneath the surface. I’m not afraid to break the rules and push boundaries because that’s where my creativity thrives. My art is a reflection of who I am: bold, unconventional and unapologetically true.
Which other artists most inspired you?
Artists that have inspired me include Banksy, Carol Marine, Jeff Weir, Mike Yoshiaki Daikubara, Ten Hundred, Detour 303, Monet and Jed Dorsey.
Where do you find your best sources for inspiration?
I find solace in pursuing outdoor activities. Fly fishing, camping and hiking have become an integral part of my life, allowing me to connect with nature’s wonders. These adventures are even more special when shared with my wife and our two dogs, Dodger and Remy.
What is the greatest compliment you’ve received about your work?
It’s when someone feels an emotional connection to my work. It can be hearing that the painting evokes a memory, inspires someone or makes them see the world differently.
What are you working on now that you are excited about?
I teach an online landscape painting course called PAINT WITH FREEDOM. I invite all to check it out at paintwithfreedom.com.
I’m also excited about creating quality over quantity and entering in as many Plein Air events as I can this year. I’m also working on a western series that includes landscapes and wildlife. Eight of my paintings are heading to Jackson Hole in August.
What is one piece of creative advice you wish you had learned earlier?
Some days are filled with doubt – wondering if you’ll ever succeed or if your art stands out in such a competitive field. Rejections and slow progress can be discouraging, and making a living from your work often feels like an uphill battle.
It’s so important to have people in your corner. Surround yourself with friends, mentors or fellow artists who believe in you, even on days when you don’t believe in yourself. Their support can help you push through the tough times and keep going.
The journey isn’t easy, but the struggle is part of what makes growth and success so rewarding. Focus on your own progress, trust your process and don’t let comparisons hold you back.
To learn more and see examples of Manny’s art, please visit:
Instagram: instagram.com/artbym.a.m
Website: mannyamaldonado
Gallery Representation:
Trade Alley Art Gallery
25 2nd Street NW
Hickory, NC 28601
You can also see his work at:
Carolina Steak & Rib
1430 East Main Street
Lincolnton, NC 28092
Cafe Koa & Market
302 North Howe Street
Southport, NC 28461
