White Flowers on Lilac Painting Signed Brazilian Art, "Calla Lilies"

Brazil's Marilurdes Martins – who also signs her artwork as M Lurdes – came upon art through the torturous paths that destiny sometimes leads through. "When I was 19 years old I left my hometown in San Antonio do Sudoeste and traveled to Rio de Janeiro to make a life.

"There I met René, a young man who sold artistic materials such as molds, acrylics, etc., in art fairs and to studios. Certain that he was the love of my life, we marred within six months and I started working with him. The daily contact with artists and their work nurtured my passion for art.

"I had originally trained in physiotherapy, but art reached my heart more powerfully. I decided to dedicate my time to painting, thanks to the support of my family, my husband and our two children.

"My inspiration comes from what I see day to day, it's in the quotidian, and also from my collaboration with other artists. Strong and vibrant colors fill me with happiness and good energy, and that is what I like to transmit through my paintings.

"I like all painting styles and I'm always open to new discoveries. At the moment I identify with geometric shapes.

"When I finish a painting I feel happy and I keep imagining better world, one that is fair and happy that evolves from the vibrations of the colors and shapes emanating from my painting."