“In Interlace, Maria José Chica’s work delves into how cultural and geographical roots shape personal identity, offering a profound reflection on belonging and transformation. Presented as part of Interlace, a collaborative exhibition exploring Latin American heritage and migration, her paintings connect the physical landscapes of Colombia with the fluidity of human history.

Drawing inspiration from geological strata and archaeological traces, Chica’s layered compositions use natural pigments sourced from Colombia’s ancient soils. These vibrant materials physically connect her work to the earth’s history, merging abstract patterns with archival imagery of ruins and archaeological sites. Her paintings reveal how the natural world and human narratives intertwine, reminding us that identity is shaped by both the places we come from and the stories we carry.

Through her art, Chica challenges linear notions of time, presenting history as a cycle of accumulation and erosion. Her reversible works blur the lines between past and present, natural and human, inviting us to see identity as a shared, evolving story. By uncovering the invisible layers beneath our feet and within ourselves, Chica’s work offers a meditative lens on what connects us as one humankind, highlighting the profound impact of cultural exchange and transformation.”

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