Though her work has been exhibited throughout the United States and internationally, local artist Alea Hurst is thrilled to have her work featured in a gallery close to home. Hurst currently has several paintings on display at The Georgian Gallery in McDonough.

A graduate of the University of Georgia and the Savannah College of Art and Design, she has worked to hone her artistic skillset over the years. She produces artwork that is both vibrant and compelling.

A full-time professional studio artist, Hurst and her canine art critic Leo – short for Leonardo ‘Dog’ Vinci – spend much of her time in her studio working on her newest paintings.

Along with painting, Hurst has experience in drawings, printmaking, and murals.

Most of Hurst’s art uses symbolism and encourages viewers to see familiar personalities, feelings, or ideas in her work.

“Looking at it at first, you may or may not get the symbols or meanings behind my paintings, and I’m okay with that as long as you get something from it,” said Hurst.

She is currently working on a painted mask series, focusing on archetypes inviting viewers to see figures in their lives within the subjects featured in her paintings.

“When you look at the people portrayed in these portraits, I want you to be able to think, ‘I may not know who this exact person is, but do I know that type of person? That person is my best friend or my mom,’” said Hurst. “I want to connect with the viewers in that way.”

For Hurst, art is a profession and a way for others to get a glimpse of who she is.

“Art is my way of creating and putting myself out in the world,” said Hurst. “I’m very introverted. My art is how I put my thoughts and feelings out in front of everyone. That’s how I communicate with the world and put a little piece of me out for everyone to see.”

Hurst has hopes of expanding the appreciation of art locally.

“I’m excited to become more involved in the McDonough art scene and see how we can all help it to grow,” said Hurst.

By Erin Lopez