The ALG was built on the principle that a rising tide lifts all boats. So we’re proud to have created even more opportunities for local artists to share their work with the Dallas art scene and the world through our digital platforms. We want ALG to be an inclusive space for creators, collectors, and the community, platforming amazing talent like Volta.
Volta Voloshin-Smith first exhibited the ALG during the Visiting Artists Show with her vibrant and nostalgic watercolors. She came back with an extended “Birds on Snacks” collection for the Merriment Market. Her art captures beautiful moments in time that feel so moving due to the story behind them.
Find the joy
Volta has shared how growing up in post-Soviet Moldova, the world around her “was anything but colorful. The environment felt muted, both in landscape and in spirit.” Nevertheless, glimmers of hope were found spending summers with her grandmother in her garden, finding “joy in the simple act of planting, nurturing, and harvesting.” It sparked an appreciation for nature and food which at first glance might seem plain and ordinary but if you look closer, you can find vibrancy beneath the surface.
This seed of an idea blossomed when she moved to America. She said, “Suddenly, I was surrounded by food from countless cultures, each rich in flavor, tradition, and connection.” Inspired to paint the new foods and environments, she captured not just the visuals but what they represented – the fullness of life, community, and belonging.
Share the joy
We can connect the dots between her story of inspiration and her beautiful artwork. For Volta, nature and food were a break from bleakness so she uses bright, vibrant colors, playing with the saturation to portray her joyful perspective.
In many of her pieces, nature and food interact playfully, creating sweet scenes we could imagine taking place in our own backyard. This is the case for “Birds on Snacks,” a series that puts the spotlight on parts of our world we wouldn’t think to show appreciation for – little birds flying past our window and the boost we get from a good snack. But it hasn’t gone unnoticed by Volta. In fact, the opposite. Each watercolor is an ode to the simple joys.
“Mandarin Duck on a Madeleine”
Indulge in the simple joys by coming down to the ALG. Volta’s “Birds on Snacks” will remain on display for the rest of the year among artwork sharing the perspectives of other local artists. Some may still even be available for purchase. Connect with Volta Voloshin-Smith to keep up with her many creative endeavors.
