Artist’s Spotlight

Maricris Castillo

Maricris Salazar-Castillo, an artist whose work echoes with the harmonious melodies of nature, draws her inspiration from the timeless enchantment of Claude Monet’s garden paintings. With every stroke of her brush, she orchestrates a symphony of impressionism and personal connection that speaks to the very soul of her viewers.

Gardens of flowers unfurl, landscapes stretch to the horizon, and seascapes beckon with tranquility—these are Maricris’s canvas realms. A steward of the environment, her creations extend beyond the visual, delving into the realms of culture and history. The effervescent radiance of her blossoms is not just an aesthetic spectacle; it communicates comfort, contentment, and sheer joy, inviting a profound dialogue with those who gaze upon her works. 

Yet, behind her artistry lies a deeper root. Maricris’s artistic journey stems from her mother, Araceli Cruz Salazar, whose love for nature and flowers infused her spirit with an abiding reverence. Through her painted petals, Maricris pays homage to her parents’ enduring legacy and the boundless love that continues to inspire her.

Art has been Maricris’s steadfast companion since childhood. The paintings gracing her grandparents’ walls ignited a spark that set her on this creative voyage. She wove her understanding of art from newspapers’ art sections and the pages of insightful books, layering her creations with emotional depth.

In the spirit of Monet’s impressionism, Maricris liberates her art, allowing raw emotion to dance upon her canvas. Her creations transcend their medium, forging intimate connections with viewers on a personal plane. Guiding her creative evolution is her mentor and husband, Janddie Banuelos Castillo, acclaimed as the “Master of Splash Art.” His influence not only honed her skills but ignited her innate talent, setting her on a transformative path.

Maricris’s dedication to her craft emanates authenticity, regardless of external judgments or competitions. She views the art world as a captivating yet challenging realm. For her, painting isn’t just an artistic endeavor; it’s a means of sharing happiness, contentment, and a positive perspective even amidst the darkest of times. Her works become beacons of hope amid the pandemic’s shadows, reminding us of the enduring power of art.

Guided by a philosophy rooted in learning, practice, and inspiration from artistic predecessors, Maricris’s creations go beyond visual aesthetics. They embody healing and inspiration, transcending the realm of visuals to soothe and uplift. In each stroke, she captures a fraction of God’s creation, revealing a tapestry of beauty that surrounds us.

To her fellow artists, Maricris offers sage counsel—an invitation to embrace their innate artistic talents. She views her paintings as vessels of divine goodness, a tangible connection to her Creator’s boundless grace. With this philosophy, she urges artists to discover the beauty within themselves and contribute positively to society.

Maricris Castillo’s art is a living testament to the beauty woven into every corner of existence. Her canvases echo with a symphony of praise, a celebration of God’s majesty and creative fervor. With her art, Maricris reminds us that every brushstroke can be a note in the grand composition of life.