ABOUT

I draw inspiration from the diverse experiences that have shaped my life. Born in Venezuela, raised in Utah, and currently residing in North Carolina, I have been fortunate to witness the beauty of different landscapes and cultures. These encounters have greatly influenced my artistic expression.

Beyond the canvas, I find solace and joy 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. Together, we explore hidden trails, and embrace the serenity of the wilderness.

ARTIST STATEMENT

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 ever-changing mood of nature. Each brush stroke and each sketch captures 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.

“An artist must never be a prisoner. Prisoner? An artist should never be a prisoner of himself, prisoner of style, prisoner of reputation, prisoner of success, etc.”

— Henri Matisse

FAQs

 

How long have you been painting?

Professionally since 2019.

How do you price your paintings?

I charge by the square inch.

Do you do commissions?

Yes. I prefer to do work that fits into the rest of my themes and styles.

Do you offer workshops?

Yes I offer a 12 week online landscape painting course PAINT WITH FREEDOM

Do you paint on site or from photos?

I paint both en plain air and from reference photos that my wife and I take in our travels.

Do you ever sell your work framed?

I don’t frame my artworks. They do come ready to hang. I leave the choosing of the frame to you because you know what decor fits best in your home.

Publications

Voyage Utah Magazine

August 3, 2022

https://voyageutah.com/interview/check-out-manny-a-maldonados-story/

Voyage Utah Magazine

February 12, 2025

https://voyageutah.com/interview/meet-manny-a-maldonado-of-iron-station-nc

LKN Magazine

April 1, 2025

https://lkn-magazine.com/art-speak-manny-a-maldonado/

Bold Journey

July 29, 2025

https://boldjourney.com/meet-manny-a/

Canvas Rebel

March 9, 2026

https://canvasrebel.com/meet-manny-a/#google_vignette

Honors & Awards

2nd Place Plein-Air event at Valdese Lakeside Park, NC 2022.
People’s Choice Selection at Foothills Plein-Air Festival, Elkin NC 2022.
Southport Plein Air Festival 2024, Award Winning Artist.
Honorable Mention & People’s Choice Award at The Valdese, NC Plein Air Festival 2024.
Southport Plein Air Festival 2025, Latana's Gallery and Fine Gifts, Plein Air Award Winning Artist.
People’s Choice Award at The Valdese, NC Plein Air Festival 2025.

Collections

Private Collections in the United States- Kentucky, Chicago, Houston, California,  Washington State, Utah and North Carolina

Exhibitions

2026 Group Exhibition, Rock School Arts Foundation Galleries Old Rock School, Valdese, NC, March 6-April 3, 2026

Memberships

Guild of Charlotte Artists
American Impressionist Society Inc
North Carolina Plein Air Painters
High Country Plein Air Painters
Charlotte Urban Sketchers
Gaston County Art guild
AU Painting Challenge Community

Professional Experiences

Plein Air Painting Instructor, Self Employed, NC, 2024-Present
After School Art Instructor for NCMA ( North Carolina Museum of Art) AIM Program & Residency 2026
After School Art Instructor for Iron Station Elementary, NC 2025
Founding Member, Newton Plein Air Festival, Newton, NC 2026
Plein Air Instructor in Collaboration with HMA (Hickory Museum of Art) 2026

You can also see my work at:

Carolina Steak & Rib

1430 East Main St
Lincolnton, NC 28092

Cafe Koa & Market

302 North Howe St
Southport, NC 28461

NoCo Arts Gallery

118 N. College Ave,
Newton, NC 28658

Old Hickory Tannery

970 Locust St
Newton, NC 28658

Represented by:

Latana’s Gallery 

113 South Howe Street
Southport, NC 28641