Artist Statement
On my watercolor paper, I find my new voice emerging within the constraints of my limitations after having lost my motor ability. My current work is what I get to create within what is physically possible for me. Each piece feels like a timestamp that reflects my ever-healing path combined with childhood memories of a horizon drawn in the high altitudes of my Andes mountains. My process honors my worthiness beyond my ability and connects me to my homeland and family; It is an exploration of curiosity and play through uncertainty, expressed by way of abstract mark making mixed with a child-like practice filled with freedom.
Much like in a sudden event, the first brush strokes are bold and arbitrary. In acceptance of what is given, I then let each stride lead the next intuitively; pausing to look closer into the shapes to find feelings and life revealing before me, somewhat mirroring the unpredictable ways of life-changing experiences. Slowly, looking inward, each step becomes a possibility to find a sense of direction, a giggle, and deep knowledge of where I have come from.
Letting my imagination chase vibrant colors running through water, my hands move however they are able without a plan, and adapting my tools. This is how I experience transformation, work through the griefs of trauma, and find renewed belief; I exist in both the strength, and the innocence of my own spirit, I create for the joy of being.
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About Juliana Alonso
Born and raised in Bogotá, Colombia, Juliana Alonso, likes to say that she is composed of equal parts sentiment, compassion and goofiness.
Influenced by her father’s passion for nurturing her appreciation for her native land and history through travel and improvised bedtime stories, she always found delight in painting.
While art remained at the roots, she studied Industrial Design and worked as a graphic designer until a strong desire to experience life outside the computer came calling a few years after moving to the U.S. This new perspective as an immigrant made her pursuit painting to honor the most meaningful moments of her life, culture, and upbringing.
She now resides in Houston, TX with her husband Shawn and two old gatos, enjoying sunlight and bird songs through her studio windows. Exploring nature and abstraction through whimsical watercolors is how she celebrates life and navigates her healing path after experiencing a neurological event that changed her life forever.
In healing through creativity, Juliana thrives to bring hope and courage to dream and connect with our imagination so we can draw strength and joy through the dark and light seasons of our lives.
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