ALEXANDRA SUAREZ

Gardens of Impunity Day 1

2011-11-10T23:04:00.001-05:00

Today I officially started producing the Gardens of Impunity, I plan to address power, corruption, violence, social injustice, oppression and war.

The Gardens will be made of bullet casings and whatever inspires me to make a strong statement against what makes humanity atrocious.

This painting is going to refer to child soldiers because one of the biggest atrocities commited by man is to involve children in the conflicts of adults.

Gallery 101 - Ft. Lauderdale

2011-09-06T21:14:00.000-04:00

Gallery 101 exhibit in Ft Lauderdale during August.
Illuminata and Lotus were on display, my two recent favorite paintings

Delivering "Hope in Adversity"

2011-08-13T12:58:00.000-04:00

I believe every painting is a part of me, each piece has heart and energy that remains with it forever. Nothing makes me happier than to share this with wonderful people! The Berretta-Paris household now owns "Hope in Adversity" it is a tribute to resilience, to strength and to always finding light at the end of the tunnel. A perfect match for my favorite couple.

Art in Paris

2011-04-04T21:41:00.000-04:00

I was so inspired in Paris I wanted to draw and paint everything I saw.

ALEXANDRA SUAREZ: Artmony at the Gansevoort Miami Beach

2011-01-03T16:48:00.001-05:00

ALEXANDRA SUAREZ: Artmony at the Gansevoort Miami Beach

Alexandra Suarez

2010-12-27T17:48:00.000-05:00

Artmony at the Gansevoort Miami Beach

2010-12-02T12:03:00.000-05:00

Steve Kehayias (Photographer) and Alexandra Suarez (Painter) will be showing their work at the Gansevoort Miami Beach December 2nd - December 5th.

Alexandra Suarez at Buro Miami

2010-11-25T09:22:00.000-05:00

Buro Miami is a gorgeous contemporary space designed for urban workspaces in Midtown Miami. I have been selected to exhibit my work until February 2011 at their brand new offices.

Very cool!

Reflections on Art

2010-11-05T15:50:00.003-04:00

Art is personal...

Art inspires...

It moves you...

It makes you feel alive!

Art is the manifestation of the human spirit

It makes a house a home.

Lunatics at Zu-Modern

2010-10-27T16:50:00.000-04:00

NEW DISPLAY LOOKS GREAT!

I LOVE THIS PAINTING BECAUSE IT'S PRIMITIVE AND RAW!

THE LUNATICS ARE FUN, THEY REPRESENT OUR WILD SIDE, OUR CRAZY SIDE, EVERYBODY HAS IT AND NO ONE CAN DENY IT.

TODAY THE LUNATICS ARE FOR SALE AT ZU-MODERN FURNISHINGS AT 1211 STIRLING RD IN DANIA BEACH.

A GORGEOUS STORE WITH AMAZING DECOR.

PARTING WAYS WITH WHITE TARA

2010-08-20T14:58:00.000-04:00

This piece has been with me for many years, I rarely showed her before with the excuse that she wasn't ready. Actually, I didn't want her to be ready which is very different. White Tara, goddess of compassion is now part of the Zegarra household. They made a special frame for her and even though there was some rebellion from us parting ways; I was very dramatic when I was bringing her down, which didn't really surprise anyone hmmm... and she fell off the wall the first day they hung her, breaking everything in sight! Still, I know she will be in good hands reminding her new environment of the need for some compassion in a troubled world.

Some pieces are harder to part with than others, it seems like a part of you leaves with that painting but I've realized that art also has a destiny and a journey to complete.

White Tara's journey continues in a beautiful home in Sacramento California, displayed with all the pride and appreciation an artist can only wish for.

She's in good hands.

Photo courtesy of the Zegarra Family.

Just Finished "Fortuna"

2010-04-09T16:58:00.000-04:00

Just finished this yesterday and wanted to share.
Acrylic on Hardboard
24" x 8"

Santo in Disguise Event Pics

2009-12-13T08:43:00.000-05:00

Thanks to all that attended!!!

Santo in Disguise - Art Exhibit

2009-12-03T10:15:00.001-05:00

I'll be exhibiting Friday December 4th at Santo on Lincoln Rd. Their will be art, wine and a live music performance. See you there!

Alexandra Suarez at Zu Furnishings

2009-11-28T10:45:00.001-05:00

Zu Furnishings will now be displaying select pieces of my recent work, they are located on 1211 Stirling Rd suite 109 in Dania Beach. Their stuff is amazing, very trendy!

Interest in Latin American Art Increases

2009-11-25T09:53:00.001-05:00

In 2009 PINTA the Contemporary and Modern Latin American art fair has proven the increasing interest in latin american art. This year it had the participation of 15 New York Galleries and it's sales to Museums and private art collectors prove it's importance in the art market. In total their were 60 galleries from the United States, Europe and Latin America.

It's a relatively new fair, but each year keeps getting stronger, it has exceeded expectations this year and their goal is to take it to London.

Latin American art has definitely made a footprint in the art world. The work is high quality and the culture and social issues provide a colorful yet powerful combination.

Art as a Strong Investment in a Weak Economy

2009-11-23T10:08:00.000-05:00

Just read a very interesting article about how art has become a viable investment in this weak economic market. Since the stock market has become so volatile, Real Estate plummeted and times are so uncertain art has become a more solid investment not only competing but sometimes even beating stock market turns.

Now...the art that's in demand is mainly work from highly known artists or old masterpieces because their prices have dropped to a point where medium wealth investors can get a piece of the pie. But how does that affect a hardworking artist with great dreams like myself and many others? Well, it's a great thing! This gets people to view art as a serious investment, it gets them excited about being a part of a great market and what would be a great investment for someone that can't afford a Picasso? purchasing art from emerging and mid-career artists that are serious about their career and that have the power to be successful.

"In the middle of difficulity lies opportunity" - Albert Einstein

Artwalk at Rainbo in Hollywood Pics

2009-11-22T15:34:00.000-05:00

We had a great time at Rainbo last night! The owner, Jim Fantasia is an amazing Chef and we had a delicious meal. My skirt steak was sooo good yum yum and my husband barely left the bones on his lamb lol!

The art looked great and it will be on display until December 7th.

The Grille Room at Rainbo Cafe is located on
1909 Hollywood Blvd
Hollywood, FL
33020

Alexandra Suarez Augustyniak: Hollywood Artwalk en Rainbo Cafe

2009-11-16T21:37:00.000-05:00

Alexandra Suarez Augustyniak: Hollywood Artwalk en Rainbo Cafe

Hollywood Artwalk at Rainbo Cafe

2009-11-16T21:35:00.000-05:00

This Saturday November 21st, 2009 I will be participating in the Hollywood Artwalk at Rainbo Cafe.

Come see some art at:

1909 Hollywood Blvd
Hollywood, FL 33020

From 7:pm - 9:pm

See you there!

Group Exhibition at Miami Art Exchange - Wynwood

2009-11-16T21:19:00.002-05:00

Saturday November 14th, 2009

Solo Exhibition at Gallery Gourmet

2009-11-16T21:09:00.002-05:00

Saturday November 14th, 2009

Saturday November 14th - Solo Exhibition at Gallery Gourmet

2009-11-10T10:26:00.000-05:00

Saturday November 14th

7:00pm - 10:00pm

Alexandra Suarez - Solo Exhibition

at

Galerie Gourmet

138 NW 37th St.
Miami, Fl
33127

Meet Flower

Acrylic on Canvas

20" x 16"

2009-11-07T14:59:00.000-05:00

The Sailor

Acrylic on Canvas

24" x 24"

I like this piece! (obviously because I made it:)) I feel my work is changing at a much faster pace than before. Life is starting to change and cycles are ending so it's reflecting on my colors and subject matter. The Sailor for me is the body and soul going through life and the realization of the real value of our existence.
I'll leave the rest to each persons own reflections.

Warhol's Michael Jackson portrait to be auctioned at Christie's

2009-10-25T08:18:00.001-04:00

An Andy Warhol silk screened image of Michael Jackson will be auctioned at Christie's on November 10th. They estimate it'll go for $500k - $700k. This is part of a small group Warhol created in 1984. Not a huge fan of Warhol but go MJ!

"Transicion" hanging in it's South Beach Pad

2009-10-23T13:07:00.001-04:00

The owners of "Transicion" have forwarded pictures of how they've displayed their painting at their beautiful South Beach pad. Amazing guys!!!! I totally dig it.

Photos courtesy Javier Pastrana

Alexandra Suarez at 01 Organic Gallery in Tampa, Fl

2009-10-22T21:44:00.000-04:00

I'll be participating in the 01 organic Gallery November group exhibition.
Come join us for the Artwalk on November 7th and there will be a Wine and Cheese on November 14th.

01 Organic Gallery
1517 E 7th Ave
Tampa Fl
33605

Shepard Fairey Creator of famous Obama Hope Poster in legal trouble

2009-10-18T10:09:00.001-04:00

39 year old artist Shepard Fairey is facing legal trouble due to a law suit against the Associated Press claiming the images he used to design the poster were under "fair use". The AP always claimed Fairey based his poster on a picture taken by their photographer Manny Garcia of Obama sitting by himself. Fairey initially claimed that he based himself on a picture of Obama sitting by George Clooney in the same event.

To prove his case Fairey submitted false images and deleted others. Upon his admittance of this, his lawyers have withdrawn from the case. This has created great debate between groups that advocate artists "fair use" and journalists copyright protection.

Fairey apologized for the way he handled the case but claims that regardless of the images he used the fair use issue should be the same.

Obama's for Modern and Contemporary Art

2009-10-08T20:39:00.000-04:00

Washington D.C - The Obama’s have chosen approximately 36 works of Modern and Contemporary art from the nation’s federal museums to decorate their private quarters at the White House.

Many of the chosen artworks are American postwar including famous names like Rothko, Diebenkorn and Ruscha. They have also included 2 Degas bronze dancers.

Big difference from the stuffy old portraits of the past.

Perla the Artiste!

2009-10-08T17:02:00.002-04:00

I have to share this picture with the world! This is a painting I'm working on made with the collaboration of my very cute Bichon Perla. Thanks Perla!!! your paw prints and scratches have made this canvas a true masterpiece mua!!!

Interesting Facts - Impressionism

2009-09-25T14:52:00.002-04:00

Impressionism in it's early days was so ridiculed that newspaper cartoons warned pregnant women that looking at such paintings would cause them to miscarry.

Press - "Art with a Conscience"

2009-09-19T11:25:00.000-04:00

I'm very excited about this article published in Latin Star World Magazine. The journalist captured the essence of my story and I'm very happy with the outcome.

I'm waiting to get the actual copy but I heard the magazine looks great!

The full article can be found in Septembers issue of Latin Star World Magazine available in Magazine an Newstands in the West Coast.

I can also forward a copy of the article to anyone interested.

"FAVORITE QUOTE"

2009-09-13T19:27:00.002-04:00

"Try not to become a man of succes but rather try to become a man of value."

Useful Tips for Buying Art - How to get more for your money

2009-09-12T18:53:00.004-04:00

1-Buying from an independent artist will give you good value because many galleries take a comission of up to 60%.

2-Research and study the artist, make sure you learn about their life and career and look for an artist that is dedicated to their work.

3- Consider purchasing work from an emerging or mid career artist, their work is not overpriced and if the artist is comitted the value willl go up.

4- An artist with a unique style is more likely to draw attention than an artist that copies a style.

5-Meet the artist, learn what he or she is about, this will help you understand who they are, the essence of their work and where they're going.

6-Once you buy, make sure to promote your artist, the more your artist is known the more the value of their work and your investment increases.

Trends: Feng Shui Tips for your Home Colors Yellow and Orange

2009-09-11T21:28:00.000-04:00

Yellow color wakes up the room like the rising sun. The feng shui color of sunlight, cheerful and uplifting Yellow always lightens and brightens any space, as well as creates a cozy, welcoming feng shui feeling. From hot sunflower Yellow to pale buttery tones - there are many feng shui options to choose from.

Yellow color is an excellent feng shui choice for the children's rooms, as well as the family room.

Any dull, dark room with little sunlight will greatly benefit from a Yellow based feng shui scheme to compensate for the lack of light and bring the gentle warmth of the sun. Yellow brings the feng shui energy of Fire in a gentler way than Red; it is the most enchanting of all colors, as well as easier to "live with" in bigger/larger quantities.

Color researchers believe color Yellow to increase self-esteem and strengthen the overall well-being. Feng Shui-wise, use hot Yellow in moderation in the feng shui areas of East and South East areas of your home.

Orange -When feng shui use of the color Red is too intense for your space, go for Orange and Yellow colors in your feng shui applications instead. Orange is often called the "social" color, as it creates the feng shui energy to promote lively conversations and good times in your home. In the winter especially it reminds us of summertime dreams, as well as resembles the cheerful flickering of deep and vibrant orange in log fires.

Feng Shui-wise, Orange represents the Fire element and it is best in the following feng shui Ba-Gua areas: South (Fame & Reputation) and Southwest (Love & Marriage). Avoid a predominant Orange-theme in the feng shui areas of West and Northwest, as they are governed by the Metal element, and Fire melts the Metal in the feng shui cycle of five elements.

The other two feng shui areas to avoid a strong presence of Orange color are East and Southeast, as both are governed by the element of Wood, and Fire burns the Wood in the interplay of five elements.

The vibrant and happy Orange color is an excellent feng shui choice for the living room, dining/kitchen, children's play area or anywhere in your space where you want to have a playful, lively and pulsating energy. Usually, it is easier to bring it with feng shui decor accessories or one feature wall, rather than a full room color.

The softness and warmth of Orange makes it a feng shui color easy to live with. At sunsets the light in Orange-themed rooms becomes beautifully golden and a nurturing feeling to remember.

By Rodika Tchi, About.com
http://fengshui.about.com/od/fengshuicures/qt/colororange.htm

Modern Interior Designing Ideas

2009-09-09T18:24:00.000-04:00

Less is more: Modern interior designing concepts are based on clean and clear lines. Try and keep your furniture to a bare minimum. For example while designing your living room, try and keep the furniture limited to large couch (preferably one with straight lines and geometrical shapes) and additional two or three extra chairs. Do not clutter the room with additional futons or benches. Keep the center table can be completely eliminated in case there is no functionality.

Wireless World: Electronic appliances are an integral part of the homes today. Be it the refrigerator, microwaves in the kitchen, the sleek television sets in the living room or the music systems and the laptops in the house – there are a number of electronics which need to have a proper space in the house. Try and incorporate wireless appliances and have flawlessly concealed wiring throughout the house.

Keeping it simple: Modern interior designing is all about keeping it all clean and clear with straight lines and geometrical shapes. The alignment as well as the shapes of the furniture – everything is designed around this concept. Try and keep everything simple and functional in the house. In case you are planning to have a studio apartment, try and maintain the simplicity and enhance the functionality of the space.

Right Colors: Try and create an ambience that oozes class and style without too much of effort. Try not to use too many colors since you don’t want the colors to overpower the entire ambience but rather enrich the ambience in a subtle and stylish way. A contrast between light-colored serene walls and furniture in deep-colors or vice versa can be a great idea.

Space Utilization: Space utilization is always an issue while designing a space. Making optimum use of space for storage should be the number one priority while designing a home. While making enough room for storage try to ensure that there is a lot of free space to move around. Modern advertising is all about making the rooms seem more spacious than they actually are.

Invest Wisely: Instead of cluttering the house with too many decorative articles, it is always wise to invest in fewer and better interior designing ideas. Always try and create one or maximum of two attention points in a single room and design the entire room around it. This helps to maintain the simplicity and enhance the aesthetic value of the entire room.

By Uttara Manohar
For more decorating ideas visit buzzle.com

Going International

2009-09-05T17:08:00.000-04:00

Picture Courtesy Diego Pena Rey.

In this picture art enthusiasts Camilo Rojas and Diego Pena showing one of my early works on paper in Mr. Rojas trendy loft in Bogota-Colombia.

Thanks for sharing!

Is the art market showing signs of life again?

2009-08-31T18:28:00.000-04:00

The fine-art market has shrunk for the past five quarters. With prices plunging, auction houses have been looking for any positive sign they can find. ArtPrice is chiming in with its own bit of good news. The Art Price Global Index, it says, increased 4.97 percent in the second quarter.

While this change in direction doesn't undo last year's market turmoil, it may point to a slow recovery. Progress of the recovery continues to be debated hotly, but it's cited as the major factor in the Art Price Global Index's uptick, and the resulting increase in morale among dealers, auction houses and collectors could provide the necessary momentum necessary to give this trend legs.

ArtPrice puts its Art Market Confidence Index, a measure of art-market participant sentiment, up 20 points since the end of the first quarter. Through 2009, auction houses have relied on a set of lower expectations to measure success, typically whether an auction's performance reached pre-auction sales estimates. While several hit the low end of the range provided for each auction, year-over-year sales relative to comparable auctions in 2008 tended to be down 70 percent. Inventory available for auction suffered, as many collectors held back their stronger pieces for more lucrative returns in a stronger market.

The New York market showed strength into the midpoint of 2009, with a 10 percent increase in art prices, following a 27 percent plunge in 2008. But more important than the numbers is that the art community is ready for the recession to end. Sotheby's CFO has proclaimed the bottom, and ArtPrice is reporting increases in sale prices and confidence.

Excerpts from Is the art market showing signs of life again? by Tom Johansmeyer. Read full article

Why Should People Buy and Own Art?

2009-08-26T13:45:00.001-04:00

Art is a powerful form of expression for artists as well as for those who own it. Art allows people to convey or demonstrate deeply held feelings and beliefs as well as moral, ethical, and political sentiments in socially acceptable ways.

Art can stimulate the expression and interchange of thoughts, feelings, and ideas among total strangers who would not ordinarily talk to each other.

Art beautifies and personalizes environments. Art can transform private homes or places of business into personal museums.

An original work of art reflects and often enhances the personality of the individual who owns it.

Art can be used as a tool of power-- to intimidate. For example, imagine an office with a bold, vibrant, oversized painting hanging on the wall directly behind the desk, and two imposing larger-than-life sculptures, one at either side of the desk. Anyone who sits and meets with the person seated behind the desk must contend not only with that person, but also with the art.

An original work of art is not only visually appealing, but it also communicates the personality, abilities, creativity, inspiration, mind, and sometimes the genius of the artist who created it.

People decide what locations to spend time (and money) at based on the types and amounts of art they expect to encounter. For example, commercial spaces such as restaurants, hotels, and meeting places can be more or less interesting and attractive to consumers depending on the art they display (or lack of it).

Across the country and around the world, artists move into troubled or blighted neighborhoods and revitalize them with their artistry. Property values increase, new businesses move in, and the overall quality of life improves immeasurably. Sooner or later, the public discovers what wonderful places these neighborhoods have become. In some cases, people travel thousands of miles to visit them, vacation there, and buy art.

Art makes people proud to live, work, and play where they do. They point to their museums, public monuments, and cultural institutions with pride.

Excerpts from : Why Should People Buy and Own Art? artbusiness.com

MYARTSPACE Launches Streaming Contemporary Art Channel

2009-08-25T15:15:00.000-04:00

Myartspace.tv

Palo Alto, CA (PRWEB) August 24, 2009 - MYARTSPACE.com, the premier online social network for the contemporary art world, has announced the launch of MYARTSPACE.tv, a site providing live, 24-hour per day streaming contemporary art and music.

Catherine McCormack-Skiba, the founder of MYARTSPACE and CEO noted "With our incredibly rich collection of contemporary art from our 60,000 artists we represent, we have a unique ability to launch rich and interesting new art services to the viewing public. MYARTSPACE.tv allows people to enjoy very high-quality, curated contemporary art in their web browser 24 hours per day. The diversity of work is also unique, with artists from over 116 countries being represented in our community."

The live streaming fine art service is combined with a music playlist constructed on Playlist.com. The service is interactive. Clicking on the art as it streams by allows art appreciators to learn more about the artist and purchase work from them.

Check out my gallery at myartspace.com

Paris' Picasso Museum shuts for 2-year renovation

2009-08-25T14:53:00.000-04:00

According to the Associated Press Paris' Picasso Museum is closing its doors for renovations, spiriting away its masterpieces under high security to government warehouses for more than two years while seeking to expand the much-visited but cramped site.

It will stop lending out Picasso artworks during the overhaul, which will begin with experts updating, computerizing and restoring the inventory, museum director Anne Baldassari said Saturday.

The museum, in a baroque mansion in Paris' Marais district, opened in 1985, and it traces the Spanish-born artist's prolific career. Picasso died in 1973

Read full article

STEPS FOR INCREASING THE VALUE OF YOUR ART

2009-08-24T21:17:00.000-04:00

Not only does good documentation tend to increase the value of art, but the documentation itself often has value and that value can increase. Imagine if you had an original receipt from the sale of a Van Gogh painting that changed hands in the early part of this century. Or perhaps your grandfather bought a Picasso and got an inscribed photo of Picasso handing him the painting. I'm in this end of the business and can tell you that either of these items would be worth well into the thousands of dollars today. So here's what you do:

* Save all receipts and certificates of authenticity.

* Whenever possible, get descriptive written statements from artists or dealers or both when you buy art. If they won't write something for you, have them tell you about the art and either write it down yourself or record it.

* Save all books, exhibit catalogues, gallery brochures, reviews, and the like.

* Whenever possible, photograph the artists who you collect, have them sign or inscribe catalogues or gallery invitations for you.

Excerpt from How to Collect Art Like a Pro - Building a Collection by Alan Bamberger

Cool Pic

2009-08-23T20:42:00.000-04:00

Took this leaving the mall.

Being an Artist in a Weak Economy

2009-08-23T15:41:00.000-04:00

The Collapse (Mixed Media on Canvas)

I've been reading some articles on the economy and how it's affected the art world. As an artist I've been reflecting on how it affects me and what approach I can take towards coping with the current situation.

Hardships will pass and new and better times will come by, in the meantime I've realized the following things:

There are things we can't control and we need to accept them as they come. Sometimes it's better to go with the flow.
Slow times are good for the creative process. Less phone calls and e-mails give artists more time to spend creating.
We have to adjust to these new conditions whether we like it or not. This is where I apply the lessons of my life in Colombia. I learned to live and be happy with what I have. Downsizing is hard especially if we don't know how to let go.
I have to follow my instinct, I've listened to instinct more than reason throughout my life and I've never been dissapointed.
I should use my worries toward the creative process. When I have strong emotions I have to paint them, I'm sure something interesting will come out.
I can only go forward.

Pablo Picasso's Full Name

2009-08-22T11:04:00.000-04:00

Picasso's full name was Pablo Diego José Francisco de Paula Juan Nepomuceno María de los Remedios Cipriano de la Santísima Trinidad Ruiz y Picasso. His parents gave him this series of names honouring various saints and relatives.

Image: "Yo Picasso"

Source: Wikipedia

PROGRESSION OF A PAINTINGe

2009-08-21T10:50:00.000-04:00

Layers of paint and shapes form texture and depth

Beginning to define the composition but still a long way to go

Still bulding up and glad that inspriation is continuing to flow.

I also have the title: "Breaking Free". The title for me is a huge part of the painting process and it comes from the same energy I'm using to create the work. It is as important as the brushwork, without it the painting would be meaningless.

The Beginning of the end. The main points have been defined and the next step is to polish the composition to create balance.

This Baby's done!!!!! Needs varnish and a professional pic.

How I'm Learning Discipline!

2009-08-20T21:06:00.000-04:00

The last few months I've been hitting a brick wall with some of my new paintings. I have a vague color palette in my mind and suddenly I start slapping all kinds of colors on my canvas, before I know it I made a mess and I'm stuck!!! So I hang it up in my house for "observation" until I finally find my way. However, this can take YEARS!! I decided to use a different method for the painting I started a couple of days ago and instead of using every color I want I'm sticking to a specific color palette. It's starting to make sense although I have to start working on the contrasting colors before I claim success. Now my dilemma is.....Am I restricting my creative process by forcing myself to a single color scheme? The only thing I'm sure of for now is that I'm enjoying every minute of the process because everything is flowing and is heading towards a cohesive direction. I was so inspired today that I worked 12 hours straight and still have energy to keep going. I love when this happens!

Sophie's Garden

2009-08-05T12:53:00.000-04:00

Sophies Garden

Acrylic/ Collage on Panel

48" x 41 3/4"

When my little Maltese Sophia passed away unexpectedly I was completely heartbroken and tried to cope with my sadness through my art. I kept asking myself if I was ever going to see her again and if there was an afterlife where we would meet, so I envisioned a garden full of life, color and flowers. I couldn't get away from the dark outlines because I had to express my pain for her loss. I found my peace by creating this painting, adopting a little dog from the shelter and envisioning Sophie being protected and loved by an angel while my time comes to meet her again.

The Journey

2009-06-24T22:11:00.000-04:00

Acrylic/Mixed Media on Canvas

11 3/4" x 39" each

The Observers

2009-06-24T21:36:00.000-04:00

Mixed Media on Canvas

18" x 24"
The observers is based on a dream I had many years ago where I encountered some beings that had universal knowledge and had the answers to all my questions about life and the afterlife. Sorry... I can't remember what they said.

I started the painting as an abstract but these images started appearing and guiding me to it's completion.

Completed January 17th 2009 My Lucky Day

"Apocalypse" has a New Home!

2009-06-12T16:21:00.000-04:00

The owner of Apocalypse has kindly forwarded pics of this paintings new home. I'm proud to say that it's hanging in a beautiful home that has been featured in Design and Architecture Magazines along with artwork from famous artist's such as Fernando Garcia who did the neon at the metrorail in Miami, Henry Moore and Martin Ferriere among others.

It couldn't be in better hands!

Ascending

2009-06-11T21:29:00.000-04:00

ASCENDING

Oil on Canvas

48" x 30"

Human Reflections and Contradictions

2009-01-24T13:30:00.000-05:00

January 23rd/ 2009 a Father/Daughter exhibition in the Design District/Miami.

Press - "Loving Art, Loving Life"

2008-12-01T12:15:00.000-05:00

The Miami Herald

Miami Herald, The (FL)

Carl Juste/Miami Herald Staff

July 13, 2008

Artist's canvas a reflection of her life

Colombian-born artist Alexandra Suarez- Augustyniak expresses her views on war, religion and relationships through her paintings.

Author: MICAELA HOOD, mhood@MiamiHerald.com

As a child in Bogota, Alexandra Suarez-Augustyniak learned early about the harsh realities of growing up in a divided society.

"In Colombia, there are two societies: the rich and the poor," said the Surfside artist, now 37. "There were tough times when my family and I were broke and had no money."

Even harder was living on edge in a land torn apart by drug cartels that sometimes targeted schools and government-owned buildings.

"There were bomb threats at our school and violence in the streets," she said. "My family and I had to always be aware of our surroundings."

Suarez, who lives with her husband Juan Pablo Augustyniak and their two dogs, Luna and Perla, said her past is never far behind and is an essential part of her artwork -- much of which deals with political and social themes.

"My work is a reflection of myself and my life. It's what drives me, it's how I tell my story," she said in the living room of her condo, which doubles as her colorful art studio.

Suarez's paintings -- acrylic and oils on canvas -- are scattered about her living room. Art books, ea! sels and paint brushes adorn her coffee table, sofa, stereo and TV. Greeting a visitor recently, she looked artsy and creative, dressed in a long, flowing dress and a Middle Eastern-styled necklace.

The painter, who also works as a real estate associate, spends time almost every day revisiting her older pieces and creating new ones.

"You cannot put a shelf life on a painting, only the artist knows when it's done," she said.

Suarez started painting early. Her father, Marco Fidel Suarez, also a painter, was her inspiration.

"When I was a little girl, my father would take me to art supply stores and I fell in love with the paints, the crayons and the paintbrushes," she said. "While most kids were playing with toys, I was drawing on anything I could touch."

She and her father are planning a joint exhibition that will end with unusual consequences. "Whatever doesn't sell, gets burned," she said. "It asks the question: are you a savior or a villain?"!

One of her first paintings, Preguntas (Questions), was ! among 10 winners of the Chelsea Global Showcase 2004 Competition, a national contest sponsored by the Amsterdam Whitney Gallery in Manhattan.

The painting contains the words Amaos Los Unos A los Otros? (Do we love one another?), which she said were inspired by her views on religion. "How much do we apply to our lives what's taught to us religiously?" she asks.

She also has created several anti-war themed paintings, including Bombing the Innocent, Garden in Palestine, Revolution and War Crime.

Bombing the Innocent portrays the outline of a mother shielding her baby. Suarez said it was inspired by a picture she saw of a mother getting onto a bus in a war zone. It is painted in blues and browns, with red and yellow flames and bombs in the background. Suarez moved from Colombia to Los Angeles in 1997, and to South Florida in 2005. She participated in several anti-war protests in L.A.

"I believe it has a direct relationship to the violence in my country, but I als! o feel I have a need to be aware of what's going on in the world, and that I am interperter of history," she said.

Her native country made headines recently, with the dramatic Colombian army rescue of 15 hostages held by FARC guerrillas.

"I feel happy for the people who were rescued, but at the same time I'm worried for the people that are still being held hostage," she said.

El Sur (The South), which she painted early this year, was created after she returned from a trip.

"Every time I come back, I realize what we [in the United States] take for granted," she said.

El Sur shows an outline of South America, along with Spanish-language newspaper headlines about immigration, unemployment, death and religion.

As Suarez reflected on her collection, she pointed out the change in colors from her earlier dark reds and browns to her more-recent blues and yellows.

"I know living here, looking out at the ocean every day, has changed my work! ," she said. "I'm telling stories about my new life now."