ABOUT
BIOGRAPHY
Alexandra Manukyan's artistic journey is a tapestry woven with threads of diverse experiences and passions. Born and nurtured in the rich cultural soil of Armenia, she first honed her artistic skills at Fine Art College before furthering her education at the State Pedagogical University. However, her path took an unexpected turn upon her immigration to Los Angeles in 1990, leading her to immerse herself in the world of fashion.
In pursuit of her creative vision, Alexandra graduated from fashion school, embarking on a remarkable career as a fashion designer that spanned two decades. Alongside her ventures in fashion, she delved into the realm of Graphic Design, expanding her artistic repertoire and exploring new avenues of expression. This journey into graphic design opened doors to the entertainment industry, where Alexandra flourished as a freelance artist, crafting captivating movie posters for esteemed entertainment agencies.
Despite her success in fashion and entertainment, Alexandra's heart remained tethered to her true passion: fine art. With unwavering determination, she returned to her roots, participating in an array of international and local solo and group exhibitions, gracing the halls of esteemed galleries and museums worldwide. Eventually, she made the courageous decision to bid farewell to the fashion and entertainment industries, dedicating herself entirely to the pursuit of fine art.
Today, Alexandra Manukyan stands as a beacon of inspiration, sharing her wealth of knowledge and expertise with emerging artists from her studio. Infusing her artwork with the technical mastery and boundless creativity cultivated over the years, she paints narratives that resonate deeply with viewers, inviting them into a world where imagination intertwines with reality. Through her evocative creations, Alexandra invites us to contemplate the intricate tapestry of human experience, transcending boundaries and illuminating the profound beauty of existence. In each stroke of her brush, Alexandra captures the essence of existence, weaving a tapestry of beauty, emotion, and profound insight.
STATEMENT
I work in different series that cover different themes, issues, and concepts, but the
central theme that unites all of my paintings is human connection. The paintings
examine what seem to be separate and isolated life experiences and look for the
connections to, and impacts on, other people hidden in them.
I also portray images of strong women with almost god-like capabilities to impact
the animals and environments around them. They are fierce and in control, which, as I
show, may be detrimental to their surroundings.
In all of my paintings, the viewer is rewarded with new worlds to explore. First, you are
invited to learn the story of the figures. Their expressive postures are enhanced by
beautifully draped garb and jewelry, most of which were also made by myself. I combine heavy with soft, rigid with fluid to create a dramatic union of contrasts that invoke a sense of compelling wonder. The women are strong and beautiful, depicting the balance of grace and power. Their striking sense of self lures you in just to push you away. Their environments are rich, deep, and mysterious. Subtle details encourage viewers to explore and find more meaning and depth the further they go.
Extensive thought, intention, and planning go into all of my pieces before I begin painting. I allow myself the flexibility to adapt while the brush touches the canvas. This is where I welcome you to explore the second world of my paintings. As you venture closer to the canvas, the figures melt away and become a landscape of expressive, emotional and energetic brushstrokes. Thick impasto becomes heavy contours to explore in the light, delicate skin of the figures. Traditional oil painting techniques give way to moments of stark emotion. Look closely; truths and confessions are found in the brushstrokes.
I encourage you to experience my paintings at all levels: the macro level that expresses
my message and the micro level that expresses my emotions. The further you venture,
the more you will find moments and messages that speak to you.
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