From late September to early November in the Blakely Hall Gallery, local artist Stefanie Angelina Allison offers a glimpse into the works that have shaped her artistic journey over the years. Join us for a public reception to meet the artist on Sunday, Oct. 12, from 4-5:30 p.m. Allison’s exhibition “Visual Transcendence” is available for viewing in Blakely Hall through Nov. 2.
Allison said the inspiration behind her upcoming gallery had to do with her evolving use of mixed media and oil. Once working exclusively in one style, she now blends the two, using her pieces to showcase both her growth and her new style of working with both types of artistic styles through her gallery pieces.
“The Girl Who Burned the Map” by Stefanie Angelina Allison.
“When viewers experience my art, they should expect diversity,” she said. “Many minority communities often do not have the limelight when it comes to our work. To have the ability to have our heritage and culture expressed in our pieces is meaningful. It shows how far we have come.”
When showcasing her texture and collage-based works, Allison said people often ask her, “Well, what does that mean?” She explained that hidden aspects of symbolism aim to present the resilience and growth of minority communities.
“Beyond the beauty on the outside there is so much more to us, and so much more in us, we want to show and express through our work,” she added.
Allison launched her art career early, selling her first piece at just 9 years old and appearing in multiple magazines by the time she was 12.
“I started being an artist very young, at the age of 5 or 7. I used to trace my brother’s drawings, and we came from a low-income family, so it was just a paper and pencil sort of thing,” she said.
Allison started her education in art at Yakima Valley College, taking courses in live model drawings and plein-air. She expanded her interest in graphic design and illustration at the Art Institute of Seattle, then continued her love of art at Bellevue College. Most recently, she graduated from Milan Art Institute with a focus on oil painting and drawing.
“Unbreakable” by Stefanie Angelina Allison.
“I believe my education, background and nationality has helped me to use more color, use more depth, and use more hidden pieces of my background and heritage in my pieces,” she noted. “When you see my artworks, they create a story and narrative of my life.”
Although Allison’s background and culture remain central to her work, she also draws inspiration from animals and nature as well as other artists. She added that connecting with peers and exchanging stories helps to spark her creativity.
When asked to sum up her upcoming gallery in four words, she said: “What got me here.”
Learn more about Stefanie Angelina Allison at markandspray.com.
Zinna Park is a Vista Park resident and senior at Issaquah High School.
