Alex Starre’s journey as an artist has been a winding one, filled with discovery and rediscovery. From her childhood in Canada, where she first picked up a paintbrush, to her arrival in Costa Rica, art has been a constant—though sometimes dormant—thread in her life. After a 20-year hiatus, Alex felt an urge to create again, encouraged by her husband Gerrit, and inspired by fellow artist Junior Rodriguez. A few canvases later, she was back at it, painting from the heart, and her vibrant pieces quickly began drawing attention. One small solo art show, 27 guests, and 21 sales later, Alex knew she was onto something meaningful. She went on to sell her first collection and has sold over 100 pieces in the past 2 years. With a love for acrylics, Alex embraces the unpredictable dance between her vision and the paint’s own tendencies. Some days, she leans into thick textures and wild, expressive lines; on others, she dives into intricate, detailed work, each stroke guided by her mood. Her work isn’t just about putting something beautiful on a canvas—she’s driven by the need to bring meaning and energy into each piece, connecting deeply with those who bring her work into their spaces. The creative process is, as she puts it, “a roller coaster.” It’s demanding work, mentally and emotionally, to capture what inspires her, and Alex values the meditative state she reaches while painting, often with music moving her in body and brush to find rhythm with the canvas. Her surroundings in Costa Rica provide endless inspiration—vibrant nature, the local community, and the relaxed Pura Vida lifestyle, all of which fuel her sense of purpose and flow. Though Alex co-owns Sol Gallery, her focus is largely on creation, not promotion. She’d much rather be covered in paint than caught up in hashtags, which explains her quieter social media presence. For Alex, the magic happens in the gallery, where she’d rather be fully immersed in her work, the artists and clients than spending hours online. Those who step into Sol Gallery feel that vibrancy firsthand, finding an energy that words—and posts—can’t capture. Alex embraces gallery life as both an artist and curator, bringing together a community of creators with similar energy. With gratitude and glory to God and the abundant universe, she shares her artistic soul in every piece, her love for color and texture creating a contagious energy that fills the gallery and brightens every home it touches.