“Im not your guide. I am an artist.”
Mariu is an artist –through and through – and her first love is Peruvian art. Mariu paints – expressively, intensely, and more often than not, a distinct thread of writing runs through her work.
We bring you two far-flung perspectives from Peru – one from a home-grown artist who has become internationally famous, while the other is from an Australian expat who has found her home and her soul in Cusco. Each have a unique and fascinating take on what it means to be Peruvian from a local point of view.
Living in Lima, her inspiration is what moves around her – particularly people. Portraits form some of her finest work. Even a mundane conversation might end up as part of her canvas. Her life’s work is chronicled in oil pastel acrylic painting and the deep expression and intensity of her portraits, around which most of her work is centered.
Mariu seeks to find her innate Peruvian-ness through her work. In this quest she travels across Peru, listens to all kinds of music, and is constantly scouring Lima for inspiration. “Lima has a very special authenticity that I have started valuing a lot. It has a rich history that defines us really well.”
When she’s not working, you might find her strolling through El MALI, or having lunch at El Mercado in Lima.
Mariu loves sharing her passion for Peru through its art with Enigma’s guests. Her strong “Peruvian” point of view comes to the fore and she is happy to discuss her country’s artistic heritage past, present and future, for hours. She sees a distinctly national trend appearing in the work of more and more local artists as they regain their Peruvian roots.
When Niki Coate was looking for a place to set up Healing House, Cusco seemed like a natural choice. Cusco has long been considered one of the energy centers of the world. The mystic power of the Incas fascinates her. She juxtaposes holistic healing techniques in Reiki, Yoga, Meditation and much more against the backdrop of this sacred land to immerse herself and her students in a holistic way of life.
For Niki, Healing House, is not just work – it’s a life mission that she has chosen to undertake. Artistic experimentation combined with ancient wisdom creates the foundation of a holistic way of life at Healing House.
Niki believes that the Sacred Valley is the perfect location for journeys with intent. She often takes yoga groups around the ruins of Cusco just so that they can connect with the phenomenal energy that is present there. She feels that it is important to know what your intention is before setting off on the journey. For example, “I dedicate my trip to connecting with my body in a loving way.”
Cusco’s colourful symbolism and traditions are a major source of Niki’s inspiration. She loves walking around the Temple of the Moon in San Blas, where “the clouds feel almost close enough to touch”.
Niki finds that the energy in Cusco is an excellent counter for her own and she succeeds in finding inner harmony not only for herself, but for those who seek to learn from her.
Niki works with Enigma’s guests one on one to impart her wisdom and her love for Peru to those who want to share in it on a personal level. A healing session with Niki may involve a blend of different techniques and practices that she follows. Each experience is customized using mediums such as yoga, meditation or Andean spirituality to generate self-awareness and mindfulness in a holistic and healthy manner.
A journey to Peru is only truly fulfilled when you have experienced a Peruvian perspective that goes beyond the usual sightseeing experiences. Enigma’s expert ambassadors are delighted to engage with our guests to give you a unique insight into their homeland from their point of view.
