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Metro Arts is proud to present visual artist, Monika Agic, as the featured Artist of the Month. Monika comes from a diverse background and many life experiences which led her to her passion for painting. Here is how it began...
"I grew up in Banjaluka, a northern city of Bosnia and Herzegovina," said Agic. "Growing up in Bosnia exposed me to a quite exotic culture mix that resulted from years of dramatic history and occupation by the Roman, Austro-Hungarian, and Ottoman Empires. I grew up in the midst of different nationalities and customs that were a reflection of the clash and integration of the Eastern and Western cultures.
My husband and I immigrated to the United States in September of 1995. At that time I was 22 years old. We had arrived to America with one suitcase and a 5-month old baby boy."
From early ages, Monika was achieving excellent results in art classes. Students of her elementary school are still able to view some of Monika's early artwork to this day. In 3rd grade she painted a “witch on a broom” in tempera, which was permanently displayed in the school. She also developed a love and appreciation for performing arts, especially theater, early in life. Not only was Monika part of a cultural dance club, she also attended a private music school where she learned to play piano. On top of all of that, she practiced macrame and tapestry. "Being hands-on and close to arts and crafts was simply part of my everyday life," said Agic. "I was brought up to love and appreciate all kinds of artistic expression."
Monika started painting more seriously with tempura and oil in her mid-20ties as a hobby. The oil became too demanding for Monika as she wasn't a fan of having to use turpentine (as oils are not water solvent). Most of the paintings from this period in her life ended up in trash as she was not happy with them. One or two may have been donated during a spring-cleaning and could be potentially hanging on someone’s wall.
A significant transition in Monika’s painting occurred approximately 3 years ago. At that time she switched to acrylics and developed a theme around butterflies. These butterflies in particular had antennas made of a painted rope attached to their head. A few of these butterfly paintings still hang in Monika’s house and have become a part of her life.
In this past year she began painting significantly more and set up an art studio in her home. Her personal taste as well as artistic ability has evolved into an abstract form and she uses color and text to communicate to the viewer. “The act of painting feels right and it is part of who I am,” said Agic.
Artist Statement
Art by Magic produces pieces that are bold and interesting; the aim is to make something that contributes to the modern dÈcor in an exciting, yet not overwhelming fashion. As an artist I am individualistic in my expression, yet willing to cater to client’s need for the size and color palette.
Influences
“I always loved modernist style, and most of my influences comes from artists Rothko, Dali, Matisse, Miro, and Pollock, said Agic. “They challenged the conventional thought and set the stage for abstract expressionism as an acceptable genre.”
In addition, Monika has siblings in Scandinavia and has been influenced by the Scandinavian design, architecture and culture.
Her creations are the product of the totality of my life experiences, and she is always mindful of the impact the art piece will make and the mood it will convey.
With Metro Arts
Monika became a member of Metro Arts early this year and has since then become involved in Jazz in July, the mentorship program, and the artist networking meetings. “Metro Arts helped me gain access to information and opportunities to show and sell work locally via events such as Jazz in July,” said Agic. “They also provided education and feedback that was very helpful.”
This fall Monika will also participate on the Iowa Arts Council grant review panel for the September grant cycle. She is looking forward to the opportunity to learn more about the grant writing, assess worthwhile causes, and suggest the best use of the limited funding for arts.
WHERE TO FIND MONIKA
ONLINE I maintain a web-site gallery that allows people to directly view, enlarge and purchase the artwork on-line. http://www.artbymagic.com
RETAIL Some of the work is available to view and purchase through an upscale consignment shop Neveah’s Room in West Glen.
SHOW Art by Magic will participate in the First Annual South Des Moines Art Festival on September 19th
Date and Time:
Saturday, September 19, 2009 10:00am–5:00pm
Location:
South Des Moines Sculpture Park, one block east of SW 9th & McKinley
Des Moines, IA
SOLO EXHIBIT AND ART & DESIGN CLASS
Art by Magic has organized a special one-time exhibit to include a free art & design class featuring a team of local experts on Sep 24th. This unique one-time art exhibit and class will cover the topics of space planning, how to create a focal point, and how to effectively use your favorite colors. This event allows for an opportunity to win Monika's free painting as well as some other prizes.
Type:
Music/Arts - Exhibit
Network:
Global
Date and Time:
Thursday, September 24, 2009 3:00pm–8:00pm (The art exhibit is open 3:00-7:30; The art exhibit is open 3:00-7:30
The FREE class/presentation starts at 5:30)
Location:
CONNXIONS, Tuscany Village Ctr. 
3901 121st Street
Urbandale, IA
Phone:
5158978456 Email: monikaagic@yahoo.com
The team of local experts includes:
Architect Marcia Lyon of Creative Spaces,
Interior Designer Julie Youngblade of JY Design LLC, and
Art by Magic studio offers free in-home art consultations in the Greater Des Moines. For more information about this service please visit my web site.
My capabilities and specialties are creating large custom paintings for residential and business clients.
Monika Agic, Artist
Web site: http://www.artbymagic.com
Studio telephone: 515-897-8456
Email: monikaagic@yahoo.com
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