"My values represent the landmarks by which I approach a subject that I wish to present. I am a member of a community of artists interested in exploring places, spaces, people, and objects. I strive to engage in the presentation of events and to analyze how they continue to exert an impact on us."
Alida Velea was born in Slanic, a small town in Romania. Growing up amidst nature and a rich tapestry of traditional and mystical stories, Alida's affinity for art developed organically.
With an engineering diploma in her background, the decision to transition to the field of fine arts was a personal passion, although met with some controversy from those around her. A few years later, Alida achieved a First Class Honours Degree Diploma in Fine Arts from the University of Hertfordshire in the United Kingdom.
Alida's artistic focus lies in the exploration of her own cultural identity and its interaction with social events that shape our lives. In an age of profound technological advancement, her artworks serve as contemporary reflections of what she believes should be remembered and preserved.
Her approach to painting predominantly embodies a figurative style, which she considers an integral part of her national identity. At times, she merges this traditional approach with modern technologies and diverse mediums, resulting in the creation of unique and authentic artworks.
Drawing inspiration from the Impressionist masters who ignited her love for painting, Alida also incorporates elements reminiscent of Cubism, a style she attributes to artists such as Gris, Braque, and Picasso. Furthermore, her work is influenced by contemporary artists like Julie Mehretu, known for addressing political, social, and cultural themes, Victor Man, who delves into themes from his personal biography, and Alina Gherasim, who expresses her experiences through collages and paintings.
For Alida, art is a means of translating mental images associated with contemporary events and her innermost emotions into forms that can effectively convey her intentions to others. Her artworks represent ongoing experiments and a deep-seated desire to communicate messages to the world.
Review by Circle Foundation of the Arts
"Romanian artist Alida Velea constantly pushes the boundaries of creativity and expression. Her artistic journey is a testament to her unwavering commitment to evolving her craft and captivating audiences with her unique perspective.
Alida's artistic evolution is a story that traverses different epochs and styles. Her early works, a testament to her realistic skills, serve as a foundation upon which her artistic identity was built. From there, she embarked on a bold journey into the world of Cubism, where she experiments with bold color combinations and geometric shapes. This period in her career was marked by a transformation in her approach, echoing the spirit of artistic pioneers who challenged convention in the early 20th century.
However, it is in her most recent creations that Alida's personal style shines most brilliantly. Her works have become a canvas for the revelation of a unique vision, and they bear witness to her passionate dedication to expressing her distinct perspective. These pieces not only push the boundaries of artistic exploration but also offer a glimpse into the depths of her creative soul.
In her recent series, Alida has ventured into the realm of abstraction, where texture and shapes become her primary tools of expression. Her mastery in blending colors and forms creates compositions that are nothing short of captivating, imbued with a delicate femininity. Some of her works exude an aura reminiscent of sacred relics, each one silently guarding enigmatic stories and myths. They are, in essence, a visual map of Alida's thoughts and feelings; a mystery waiting to be deciphered by the perceptive viewer.
While the influence of Cubism remains evident in her work, Alida has transcended its confines to forge her distinctive style. Her approach deftly merges artistic tradition with her unique vision, resulting in a fusion that marries innovation with tradition. This union of the old and the new sets her apart as a luminary in the world of art, a visionary who not only pays homage to the past but also ushers in a vibrant future, where creativity knows no bounds. Alida Velea's journey is a testament to the enduring power of artistic exploration and the boundless possibilities of human expression."
