Art has a way of changing how a space feels. It simply adds life to places we didn’t realise needed it. For Dr. Alicia Thomas, founder of Amarie Art, that energy is expressed through abstract art.
Her work does not aim to recreate things exactly as they are. Instead, it focuses on feeling. In many ways, it is less about what you see and more about how it makes you feel.
“Really and truly, I paint whatever comes to mind… express my emotions at the given time,” she said.
That freedom is what defines her work. It is expressive, vibrant and open to interpretation, often exploring the female form or musical influences through bold colour and movement.
Creativity has always been a part of her life. From a young age, she was drawn to art. At home, that creativity showed up in murals that still remain on the walls of her childhood room.
“If you go to my childhood home… you’ll see murals on the wall in my room,” she shared. That instinct to create never really left. It simply evolved.
Years later, after being introduced to canvas and paint more seriously, she began creating pieces for her own space. And over time, what started as personal expression developed into a business.
Beyond the Canvas
The world is Alicia’s canvas. Alicia has expanded her work to everyday items. Cups, coasters, keychains, passport holders and bag tags all become surfaces for her art. Even larger pieces, such as rugs, are created using her designs and produced through specialised craftsmanship.
Like many women in business, Alicia’s journey is not defined by a single role. She works in finance and has recently completed her Doctorate in Business Administration at the University of North Carolina, Charlotte, USA.
That balance influences how the business has grown. With a strong business background, she recognised early that there was an opportunity to expand her work into products people could use regularly.
Discover Amarie Art
Amarie Art is available through Things Jamaican™, where the brand is currently being featured as part of the Roots, Rhythm and Renewal campaign, which highlights Jamaican creatives and locally made products.
Customers can shop online at https://thingsjamaicanshopping.com/brand/amarie-art/ , with free shipping available on orders over US$85.
Products are also available in-store at:
- Devon House
- 14 Camp Road, and;
- Norman Manley International Airport
Because sometimes, it only takes a little colour to change how something feels. If you are an artisan and want to get your products into Things Jamaican™, visit www.jbdc.net.
