Shaped by both observation and play, Maria Sandström explores the tension between the everyday and the symbolic through drawing, painting, and design. Her practice moves fluidly between quick, humorous sketches and bold, expressive portraits, often using irony and wit to uncover deeper reflections on what it means to be human.

Much of her early work took shape in London, with humorous and observant sketches on everything from napkins to beer coasters.

In 2020, she created a series of vibrant monkey portraits in oil pastel, which quickly sold out online and established her on the alternative art scene. With her first solo exhibition Only Human (2021), these figures were brought together for the first time, serving as a reflection of what it means to be human.

In parallel, Sandström is an award-winning designer, art director, and director, recognized by institutions such as The Royal Society of Arts, Notting Hill Arts Club, and Promax.

Maria Sandström (b. 1975 in Umeå, Sweden) is a Stockholm based artist, educated at UCA – University for the Creative Arts in the UK (2000 - 2003), where she graduated top of her class. Much of her early work took shape in London, with humorous and observant sketches on everything from napkins to beer coasters.