Maria-Victoria Checa | Washington DC Contemporary Artist
About The Artist
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 the Washington, DC area, 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.
Artist 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.
Background
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.
Technique
Checa works primarily in oil and acrylic using painting knives, squeegees, and layered textural techniques.
Rather than focusing on precise representation, her process emphasizes movement, color interaction, and emotional atmosphere. The result is a body of work that sits between abstraction and impressionist landscape painting.
Selected Recognition
Maria-Victoria Checa’s work has been featured in several publications and exhibitions.
Highlights include:
• Recent awards include First Place in Acrylics for Blueberry Hill, 20" x 16", juried by Dr. John Rasmussen, Director & Curator of the Katzen Arts Center at American University.
. Architectural Digest — Excellence in Design 2026 (DC Metro Top 100 Industry Leaders)
• DC Modern Luxury — “10 Emerging Artists to Follow”
• Baltimore Magazine — Local Stories Feature
• Kensington Neighbors Magazine — Artist of the Month
Her paintings have also been featured in collaborations and public installations.
Collaborations & Commissions
• Commissioned artwork for the Waldorf Astoria Chicago through Kevin Barry Art Advisory
• Fashion collaboration with SHEIN MOTF, featuring garments based on Checa floral paintings: Checa Art 2024 Collection
• Grayson Living distributed framed prints across the United States
• TJ Maxx carries several of Checa’s floral artworks as framed canvas prints in stores nationwide
Exhibitions
• The French Embassy — Washington, DC
• Hill Center at Capitol Hill
• Glen Echo Annual Labor Day Art Show
• TTR Sotheby’s International Realty — Chevy Chase
Public Collections
Two of Checa’s water lily paintings are installed in the Women’s Care Wing of the Cedar Hill Regional Medical Center in Washington, DC.
FAQ
Where is Maria-Victoria Checa based?
Maria-Victoria Checa is a Washington, DC–based contemporary artist working in abstract and impressionist landscape painting.
What type of paintings does Maria-Victoria Checa create?
Checa creates abstract paintings, water reflection paintings, and colorful impressionist landscapes inspired by nature.
Where can I buy Maria-Victoria Checa paintings?
Original paintings and fine art prints are available through the Checa Art website and at exhibitions. Collectors may also view and purchase selected works in person at Maria-Victoria Checa’s studio near Washington, DC, by appointment.
My favorite quotes:
For my part I know nothing with any certainty, but the sight of the stars makes me dream. Van Gogh
It took me four years to paint like Raphael, but a lifetime to paint like a child. Picasso
Since there is no such thing as absolute rightness and truth, we always pursue the artificial, leading, human truth. We judge and make a truth that excludes other truths. Art plays a formative part in this manufacture of truth. Gerhard Richter
Each color lives by its mysterious life. Kandinsky
Maria-Victoria Checa is a contemporary painter based in Washington, DC. Working from her studio in the DC metropolitan area, she creates abstract paintings and impressionist landscapes collected by private collectors across the United States and internationally. Collectors and visitors in Washington, DC, Bethesda, Chevy Chase, Arlington, and the greater DMV region can view available paintings by appointment.