The uniqueness of Alicia's sculptured story characters with painted backgounrds lies in how these elements work together to create an immersive experience that goes beyond what either sculpture or painting could accomplish independently.


Island Reverie

Mixed Media Approach: Alicia combines thlree-dimensional sculptural element (the hula dancer figure) with a vibrant painted background, creating depth and visual interest that neither medium would achieve alone.

Color Harmony and Contrast: The warm earth tones of the dancer figure beautifully complement the explosive tropical palette behind her. The reds, oranges, and browns of the sculpture create a striking focal point against the electric greens, blues, and coral tones of the painted background.

Layered Storytelling: The piece tells a rich narrative about Hawaiian culture and tropical paradise. The traditional hula dancer represents cultural heritage while the lush, almost psychedelic background suggests the sensory experience of being immersed in a tropical environment.

Textural Variety: I like to create visual and tactile interest through the smooth surfaces of the sculpture contrasting with heavily textured, painting techniques in the background foliage.

Dimensional Play: My intent is for the figure to appear as of she is emerging from or dancing within the painted landscape to provide an engaging illusion that draws viewers into the scene.

Artistic Fusion: This piece bridges traditional representational art (the cultural figure) with more contemporary, expressive painting techniques, to give the feeling of something both rooted in tradition and modern.


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Alicia Mary Retes, C.I.G., C.I.T.

Storytelling Artisan and Educator

Alicia.M.Retes@gmail.com

Alicia's Artisan Studio

"Every Piece Tells A Story"

Alicia's Aloha - a series of 17 one-of-a kind hand sculptered figures based on her direct experience of living in the elements of Hawaii for over a decade as an emerging young adult artist. She camped and speared fish for over a year in Okoe Bay, a desereted ancient Hawiian fishing village.For eight years she painted on fabric  and co-managed a banana, avocado, coffee and macadamia farm in Honaunau, both located on the Kona coast of the Big Island. She continues to visit with family and friends on the island while developing her newest series, Alicia's Aloha. She is most grateful to the Espiritu family of Napili Village, (Hawaiian and Philipino encourage her pursuit and share their knowledge of Hawaiin culture.