Maro Markou

Your artist statement speaks about nature, life, and transformation through strength. How did this idea become central to your artistic practice?

I was married for 40 years to a narcissist psychopath who lived a double life without my knowledge. I was abused in every way — mentally, psychologically, physically, financially and sexually. I still remained praying and hoping for the marriage to be healed. I discovered a truth hidden for over 20 years and that made up my mind. Once the truth was revealed to me — I packed a 20 kg suitcase and left everything: my home, my staff, my dogs, my friends, my business — my whole life. I began my healing journey with my art. I had stopped painting for over ten years due to depression and him telling me I was useless at art — he would not allow me to sell or exhibit. My art is the story of my escape and healing.

You were born in Zimbabwe and now live in Cyprus. How have these two places shaped your visual language, palette, and artistic sensibility?

My story is in my art — I was born and lived in Zimbabwe all my life. Living in Zimbabwe I was fortunate enough to see this amazing wildlife right outside my home, half an hour nearby in its natural habitat. I came to Cyprus as we had a holiday home here — I changed the locks, filed for a divorce, and fortunately I now live off the rent from an apartment my late dad left me.

Many of your paintings feature animals, butterflies, and flowers. What draws you to these motifs, and what do they symbolize for you?

The butterfly of course is my transformation journey — the struggle the caterpillar must go through to get its wings and become free. The lions and leopards are about the strength after the transformation.

Is there a particular painting among these works that feels especially personal to you? What is the story behind it?

My book will be called Out of the Fire and the cover is a self-portrait of myself walking out of the fire with huge butterfly wings. I’m still working on this painting.

What do you hope viewers feel or reflect on when they encounter your art for the first time?

I advocate for domestic abuse awareness and I’m busy writing a poetry book including my paintings to give hope and encouragement to other survivors and women who are afraid to leave. I’m 66 — I left 4 years ago after a 40-year marriage. My message is: if I can do it, you can too. Art helped my healing and I hope to help others to never give up hope and always trust in God. My mission is to use my art to speak on this subject.