2018 “Beth” Contemporary Expressionist Pastel Portrait Drawing on Paper by Maria Grazia Facciolà

Traditionally known as a photographer, Maria Grazia Facciola’ has ventured beyond a literal interpretation from the camera – to abstract strokes of the pastel medium. This series of pastels (inspired by Modigliani) is where she concentrates on the creation of female faces and forms born of her own imagination. All original pastels are mounted on archival foamboard with modern white wood frame.

Maria Grazia Facciolà

The moments in which Maria Grazia Facciolà experiences the most profound joy are when her work touches people. When, in addition to capturing their likeness, it captures their energy. When her subjects see their inner selves in her work, it is a defining moment of bliss for her. A glimpse into one’s inner beauty translated through a photograph is like magic that can be touched. She believes that beauty, in its simplicity, is the quintessential expression of inspiration. A real self equals real beauty, and when this quest begins, inspiration occurs at the moment one catches the other. The same principle is applied to her travel images. She loves to incorporate people as they add context, culture, movement into the real or imaginary story you decide to see in her images.