Maze of Joy continues until December 14 at the exhibition hall of the Association of Fine Arts Lovers in Garden City. The show presents 48 paintings: acrylic and mixed media with the dominant theme being plants, mainly flowers in their vibrant colors.

Presenting her works for the first time in Egypt, Carmen Petraru described the artworks as full of vitality, energy, and rhythm, evoking a wide range of emotions.

She explained to Ahram Online that her inspiration came from the creativity of nature and the surrounding colours, which profoundly influenced her and were expressed through abstract paintings that use vivid colours as a primary element.

"I never have a roadmap to follow in my paintings. My philosophy in creating this collection was based on spontaneity. Once I start, I lose control of myself, allowing my emotions and feelings to guide me, making the canvas my mentor. The paintings come to life during the process, connecting me with each piece," Petraru explained.

Petraru offers the exhibition as an invitation for viewers to embark on their own "journey of the soul."

"All my works are rich in colours and details. My palette is joyful, and art helps me move forward during difficult times. I have boundless energy and emotions to express my happiness especially since this is my first exhibition in Egypt, a country I deeply love and consider a great source of inspiration for many artists worldwide," she added.

Born in Piatra Neamț, a city in northeastern Romania, Petraru currently resides in Egypt. As a self-taught abstract artist, her love for art has been deeply ingrained in her since childhood.

Although starting to paint later in life may seem unconventional, the timing was perfect for Petraru, who began painting at fifty.

After a long career in law, postgraduate studies, and business development, she was ready to unleash her creative side.

The artist has already presented her works in the US and a few European countries.