Signed Still Life Painting of an Apple from Brazil, "Love in Pieces"

Born in Rio de Janeiro, Marcia Grijo is an artist. "When I was only four years old, I was already accompanying my mother to her painting classes in a studio in the Tijuca neighborhood," she says.

"I always liked drawing a lot. I studied, but little by little, I found myself involved with painting. This was when I was an adolescent, that time when children used to paint at night. Back then, it was my life's passion, only mine.

"In 1944, I began to frequent the studio of Cléo and other art teachers. Today, I am part of the Rampart studio directed by Luiz Badia, my master. He is also a Novica-featured artist. I've shown my work in several collective exhibits, most recently 'Eternally Copacabana.'

"Now, I realize the art of painting was always my passion. For 12 years I worked with fashion. With the incentive and support of my family, — my mother, husband and children — I looked for self realization in the art of painting.

"My inspiration comes from my heart, from nature and from the love expressed among people. I try, through my art, to transmit good feelings and to touch the viewer's heart.

"My family — my husband and my children, Marcela and Thiago — are very important in my life and in my trajectory as an artist. I dream of doing even more, counting on my relatives, friends and good health for all this.

"I hope to always have the energy to surmount any obstacle and to be with my children whenever possible, as they live in California.

"Through my paintings, I get to express everything in my wonderful life and that feeling of gratitude strengthens me."