Maria Lupo was born and raised in Newark, NJ. Maria attended Rutgers University, NJ receiving a Bachelor of Fine Arts. Through Rutgers University, he began his sculpture studies in Cennina, Italy. His time in Tuscany proved to be a major influence on his work, as well as a new artistic direction for the artist. Maria continued her studies in Sculpture at Hunter College, CUNY, earning a Master of Fine Arts. In addition to her studies as an artist, Maria completed her post-master's specialization in art therapy at Caldwell College and earned a second master's degree in counseling psychology. A recipient of the NJ State Council on the Arts Fellowship Award, Ms. Lupo's work is included in many public and private collections.