Maria at work on patio mural at Lucca Ristorante, Shadyside.

Maria DeSimone-Prascak knows creativity. “Creativity was such a part of my family when I was growing up,” she said, chuckling, “that I literally thought it was a part of everyone’s family life. I couldn’t imagine why anyone would want me to come into their home and create something for them; I thought they would just naturally want to do it themselves!”

After 25 years, it is now quite obvious why the walls in the homes of noteworthy cliental such as like Lynn Swann, Jim Leyland, UPMC Montefore Hospital, Sarris Candies and Duquesne University Boardroom don the creative markings of Maria’s brush.

“I used to hand-paint cards and sell them for a dollar,” she said, “and I sold hand painted T-shirts for five! And now here

I am, 25 years later, still making a living enjoying what I do!”

Vineyard mural at bar area, the wine bottle was personalized for the client.

This colorful arrangement included the client’s pet chihuahuas hidden in the arrangement.

Playroom at a church in the North Hills.

Exotic mural featured the client’s 3 beloved dogs.

Tranquil garden around tub.

A terrace at a hotel at Lake Como, Italy where the client visited.

This talented local artist has obtained international recognition as a premier muralist and trompe l’oeil artist. Growing up perched on the South Side Slopes, Maria was surrounded by a caring family who encouraged her Crayola development skills. “It never stopped.” said Maria. “I would be so excited when I got a new box of crayons. I was constantly surrounded with creative people.”

Maria’s father was a very gifted artist as well. Her mother began painting at the age of 65, and her sister Joanie is a nationally recognized wildlife jeweler. Her husband, Johno Prascak, is also an artist, renowned for his work of the Steelers and other professional sports themes. Johno was also featured in Designing Home Lifestyle’s Summer 2006 issue.

Maria began her business working as a specialized artist of novelties. Her mastery of air-brush technique helped her to design and sell many personalized jackets, t-shirts, greeting cards and signs. She also began mentoring others by teaching air-brush instruction at Carrick High School.

However, as her popularity grew, so did the tendonitis in her hands. Chronic pain had taken its toll. Finally, after 12 years, Maria was forced to close up shop and reconsider her creative passions. “That’s when I decided to paint murals,” she said. “I found that holding a brush was fine and did nothing to aggravate the tendonitis. It had always been a dream of mine to paint big; so that’s when I turned to trompe l’oeil and murals.

“What I enjoy,” she continued, “is creating places in clients’ homes that take them away. The opportunity also transports me as I undertake the job. My imagination can soar and my creative energies can flow. For me, the completed project is just as rewarding as the journey. Getting there is truly half the fun!”

Maria is especially inspired by her love of nature, gardening and historic architecture. Many of her clients find that the decorative borders and murals she paints bring the outdoors inside. “Animals are my favorite,” Maria beams. “I love creating little creatures because the details give them personality and bring them to life.”

The demand for Maria’s work is high. Each project is her own from start to finish. She does her own estimating, designing, research, and custom color matching. Maria works closely with clients to ensure that the work is a collaborative vision that fulfills everyone’s expectations.

“I provide my clients with scaled renderings that I can transpose on the wall space for their approval,” said Maria. “If any adjustments are requested, it is an easy fix at that point. After 25 years in business, you learn what works best.”

Maria was honored this year as an exclusive member of NAPEW-National Association of Professional & Executive Women and added to the 2007-2008 Registry For “Women Of Excellence.” Maria’s studio, Maria’s Ideas, is located at her home. To view Maria’s online gallery visit www.mariasideas.com (412) 481-6556.