ABOUT
STATEMENT
Art is my only moment of freedom, is my therapy, my friend, and my voice. My art is an invitation to explore the inner workings of the mind, to connect with something that is both personal and universal. I believe that my art evokes the same feelings as the ocean and the Latin beats that permeate my environment: loud, hot, and impossible to ignore.
My art is heavily influenced by my personal experience of becoming an immigrant, and the challenges and triumphs that come with such a journey.
When I create, I rely heavily on intuition and spontaneity. Most of the time, I start painting without a sketch, allowing my feelings and energy to guide my brushstrokes. This approach results in artwork that is raw, emotional, and authentic. Sometimes I like to hide words and symbols an additional layer of depth and meaning to my work, and allow viewers to discover something new each time they look at my pieces. I believe that the act of creating is a cathartic and transformative process, both for the artist and the viewer.
BIOGRAPHY
Shira, a Costa Rican artist now based in Wilmington, North Carolina. Her vibrant work is deeply influenced by the lush tropical environment of her homeland, capturing the vivid colors and rich landscapes that defined her upbringing.
A self-taught artist, Shira believes her diverse life experiences have significantly shaped her artistic journey. After high school, she spent a transformative year studying abroad in Italy, immersing herself in a new language and culture. This experience sparked her enduring love for travel and exploration, which continues to inspire her artwork.
Shira pursued a degree in advertising, graduating in 2016 in San Jose, Costa Rica. She then returned to Italy to complete a Master’s in Fashion Styling and Communication, which expanded her creative horizons. During this period, Shira began experimenting with visual arts as a powerful means of self-expression and artistic exploration.
Her time abroad profoundly influenced her artistic style and deepened her appreciation for visual communication. Now residing in Wilmington with her husband, Shira is dedicated to honing her skills and continually pushing the boundaries of her artistic expression.