Alicia Ristic - Art Galia
About:
Since 2004, I have been dedicated to supporting the local and regional art community through Art Galia. Whether through workshops, teaching, offering advice, sourcing hard-to-find supplies and tools, or providing expert custom framing, my goal has always been to protect, enhance, and complement every art piece.
I am committed to maintaining the highest level of service for both the patrons of Art Galia and for myself as an artist. I leverage a blend of cutting-edge technology and timeless knowledge to cater to everyone — from seasoned artists to children discovering the wonders of the art world, from interior designers to neighbors looking to preserve sentimental items like a letter from grandma.
As the owner of the gallery and a teacher, my time is often stretched thin, leaving little room for my own creative expression. However, when inspiration strikes, I drop everything to paint, melt wax, burn wood, or throw clay on the wheel — embracing whatever medium is necessary to release my ideas. Most days, I find myself immersed in the business of art and serving others, but when the rare moments of inspiration and solitude align, I am able to create work that brings me true joy.
“Broken Silence I” Acrylic mix on canvas Size 56″x60″
"Silence" began as a series of abandoned photographs and drawings, exploring the emotional barriers between myself and the world around me. Originally created in 2012, these pieces serve as a visual representation of my personal experiences with solitude and emotional isolation. I revisited the series in 2016, expanding on the themes of disconnection and inner conflict.
The imagery I employ fluctuates between transparency and opacity, which becomes integral to the depiction of the horses—one of the central motifs in the work. The horses symbolize the primal instincts of "fight or flight," a response that echoes the enduring emotional tension within. The shifting layers in the background reflect the passage of time and various emotional states, with the horses’ response remaining the only constant—a visceral, unyielding sensation.
The medium consists of a sturdy canvas layered with acrylic paints and acrylic medium, applied with intensity and purpose. This method creates a textured, translucent surface that forms an immersive environment in which the horses appear to exist. Charcoal is applied with my hands, smeared and pushed across the canvas, leaving behind a thick, dusty residue. The raw, tactile nature of the charcoal imparts a sculptural quality to the drawing, enhancing the piece's emotional depth and sense of movement.