Meet Owner Alicia!

What’s your background?
I have a degree in Visual Arts and Art History from the University of British Columbia as well as studied Italian Renaissance and 20th century contemporary art in Europe . Also, I volunteered for fresco restoration in Italy in 2010. Being an artist has been my dream since I was six. This is not just a dream because I’ve had some exhibitions in the past few years and look forward to curating more exhibitions with my talented students and friends! I believe that art is a way of thinking which opens more positive possibilities and flavours in life. It would be lovely to inspire many young developing minds through art with my teaching experiences with the Italian, Asian and our local children.

Why 4Cats?
When working at 4Cats Austin Station as a curator, it’s always very rewarding to hear that kids discover their love, talent and passion in art! 4Cats curriculum is designed to effectively inspire children and encourage them to discover themselves through fun art history and the art-making. Some children are special and our classes are to free their imaginations, to express their feelings and to help them believe in themselves. Working with extremely kind, thoughtful, sweet and talented staffs and students really makes the world a better place!

What is your favourite colour?
All colours! Just like the Impressionists!

Favourite art quote?

“I am always doing that which I cannot do, in order that I may learn how to do it.” Pablo Picasso
“Are we to paint what’s on the face, what’s inside the face, or what’s behind it?” Pablo Picasso
“All children are artists. The problem is how to remain an artist once he grows up.” – Pablo Picasso

Who is your favourite artist and why?
Monet. His paintings have inspired me at a very young age and taught me how to appreciate our everyday life. This makes my life beautiful and poetic in a lot of ways. He is truly a pioneer and master of Impressionism! I was stunned and speechless when seeing his original artworks in Paris and Zurich. I could visualize his divine soul in the colours and brushstrokes. They made me cry when picturing Monet working on his paintings even when he was humiliated by the Salon judges! Monet still remained his visionary and pursuit of new art with his fellow artists. And guess what! Impressionism eventully became the most popular and recognizable style in art until today. His paintings remind me of living strong!

What is your favourite art medium and why?
Acrylic and oil painting! I love lots and lots of colours! My colours reflect my emotions!

Any other interesting facts we should know about you?
I’m a very open-minded adventurer who has travelled to Tokyo, London, Rome, Florence, Venice, Milan, Altamura, Paris, Zurich, Lucern, Prague, Seattle, New York and Taiwan (I speak fluent Mandarin)! Travelling is the BEST because the art, culture, risks, and people that I have encountered really polished me to be a stronger and better person!

Meet Shiloh!

What’s your educational background?
I’m a self-taught artist when it comes to drawing and painting! I cannot remember a time when I didn’t love to create. Not entirely without an education, I have taken courses in media arts, print-making and graphic design, film-making, and theatre and have received excellence awards in all of these areas. I have spent a lot of time on the stage (almost as much time as I have spent making art) and absolutely love to act and tell stories! Over the last 5 years of my life, I have had incredibly enriching life experiences volunteering with homeless, seniors, youth, and of course, children. I currently volunteer about four hours a week outside of 4Cats with children and youth in grades 1-12.

How did you first hear about 4Cats?
I stumbled across it on the internet and deemed it to be perfect for me, and I for it.

Why 4Cats?
Because it’s the BEST! It’s history, art, and stories all conglomerated into one fantastic program. I get to hang out with incredible kids all day (and the other awesome curators here) and create and discuss art! Definitely “the best, most fun art studio ever!”

So far, what lesson has been your favourite?
Monet. I love how the Impressionists wanted to capture a moment in time and how the effect of sunlight plays such an integral role in their paintings. Monet’s work is so energetic and refreshing!

What is your favourite colour?
Hmm, bright sunshiney yellow. It changes periodically though…colours are all so unique and lovely!

Favourite art quote?
“I am seeking, I am striving, I am in it with all my heart.” – Vincent van Gogh

Who is your favourite artist and why?
Well ever since I was young I have adored Norman Rockwell because of the way he expertly captures facial expressions and body language in a humorous, relatable, and warm way. My very first favourite artist was Barbara Reid (she creates beautiful storybooks out of plasticine!), and right now I am fairly in awe of Tamara de Lempicka’s powerful paintings. Also Alphonse Mucha – I love, love, love his work! I think it’s difficult to pick a favourite because there are so many genres of art, and so much talent within those genres! My favourite artist seems to change with the seasons of my life.

What is your favourite art medium, and why?
Good ol’ fashioned pencil and paper. It’s been my companion since I was a tiny, tiny girl.

So…any other interesting facts we should know about you?
Sometimes, people call me Super Shi! Also, in my free time, I dance a lot.