Artist Profile - Maria Albiez

Maria was born and grew up in Germany. Working as a laboratory assistant in a private Institute for Water Research researching the quality of drinking water. through this work she first developed a feeling and wonder for movement and form. This was followed by study and work in Remedial Education in Germany and South Africa.

She moved to England to study Art and Art Therapy at Tobias School of Art in East Grindstead, West Sussex. A growing interest in Sculpture and Sculpture Therapy led to a postgraduate study with Gertraud Goodwin at the Hoathly Hill Sculpture Studio, West Sussex. Since 1996 she has been teaching at this studio and at Tobias School of Art, at the same time practicing Art Therapy. She has also pursued het own artistic path.

"I became inspired by the slate landscape of North Wales which led to my enthusiasm for working with slate. I searched for the hidden colour and beauty of slate pieces which I partly transform and partly leave as I find them. For me it is developing a conversation with nature and starting to listen with my heart" "The Green Man" is another theme.

Since 1997 Maria has exhibited regularly at Chequer Mead, East Grindstead, South East Open Studio, Middle Sussex Community Arts festival and other venues.