Alicia was born to parents who drew and did ceramics as hobbies when they were younger. She grew up around two older siblings who also delved in the arts--her brother sketched occasionally and her sister was becoming a serious painter. Naturally, Alicia took an interest in art at a young age, and it stuck with her throughout her life. She is currently studying drawing at a university in the St. Louis, Missouri area. Only twenty years old, she hopes to continue with art in the future. After Alicia graduates with a Bachelor's degree, she plans to go for a Master's. In the meantime, she would like to get more involved with the local art community, submit to galleries and shows, and continue with commissions.Interview
What drew you to become an artist?
I was constantly drawing people and animals as a child. I tried so hard to make things look like they were supposed to, and when I was finished, I would go to my family and have them guess who or what it was. When they couldn't guess it, I would keep trying. I think that all of those years that I strove to get it right connected me to drawing. Once I finally got it right (or as close as high school student can get), I couldn't let it go. I chose to pursue art in college because there was nothing that I could ever enjoy more.
What is your inspiration?
I have always been inspired by people and how different we all are. When I draw people, I want to get all of them right. I want to be true to their appearances as well as their personalities. I'm also very inspired by what other artists can do--it makes me work harder to develop my own skill and style.
Is there one recurring theme in your work?
I'm still very new at this. As I continue to grow as an artist, I'm sure a theme will arise, but it will not be planned. I can only say that I have a broad theme throughout my recent work--that is, that it has always retained something personal. Besides commissions, my art has been like my autobiography.
What is your preferred medium?
Charcoal has stuck with me since I started using it. When I paint, I like to use oils.
Do you have any art available in shows/galleries at this time?
Not right now, but I'm currently working on a series that I would love to submit somewhere when it's finished!
Who was the first artist that made an impact on you?
Definitely my sister. When I was young, she was going to school for painting. I would always watch her paint and draw. In a way, she was my first teacher, and I learned a lot from her.
Is there a contemporary artist that knocks your socks off?
One of my professors is a wonderful painter. If he had a website, I would direct you to it.
If you could have any artist paint your portrait whom would it be?
Chuck Close. I love his scale and what he can do with paint.
What is your next painting going to be?
It's hard to say what my next painting will be, but my next drawing is portrait of a friend. It's part of my series titled "Tear You Apart," which features different negative emotions and 'torn' paper.
Do you think formal training or not having formal training helped your art?
Despite my initial disbelief in formal training, it has definitely helped. I think that being an artist is very much about growing and learning, and I don't know if I would have done much of that without it.
What is the one thing they can’t take away from you?
My drive.
