Artist Ali Leja is a self-taught, instinctual painter who carefully weaves her personal story into modern, upbeat paintings in hopes of spreading positivity and happiness. With her myriad of subjects, Ali aims to make her audience smile. At her Johns Creek studio, Ali works with mediums of charcoal, oil, pastels, acrylic and ink to create her signature abstract expressionistic pieces. Large, quick brush strokes create enchanting bees, foxes and other creatures. Radiant portraits of friends on the beach, ladies and still lifes come to life with texture, color and shape.
The former school counselor has loved art her whole life. After serving her community for 20 years, Ali decided that she needed a change and explored painting as a creative outlet. She spoke with several artists about their process, and they all said the same thing: “paint every day." Taking their advice, Ali painted every day for three years. Her talents developed quickly, and she started producing meaningful works of art. Ali finds her inspiration in the beauty of nature around her, whether it’s the birds she sees in her yard or the flowers and trees she sees on a walk around Johns Creek.
Ali and her family have lived in Johns Creek for the past 13 years. She loves how quiet, well-kept and family-oriented the community is. Ali says, “It is a safe community and a wonderful place to raise children.” She and her husband initially chose to relocate to the northeast Fulton community because of the amazing school system and family-oriented community. At the time, she was a high school counselor at Northview High School and wanted her children to also be a part of that school system.
Ali shared her love of art by taking her children to the Johns Creek Arts Center when they were young. For more than 15 years, the arts center has provided affordable quality arts education to the Johns Creek community. It offers adult and youth classes in a variety of mediums as well as afterschool programs and camps.
Ali’s family also has wonderful memories of attending the Founders Day parades. The event began in 2007 and has since become an important tradition for Johns Creek residents. With thousands of participants, the parade features local high school clubs and bands and colorful floats from local businesses, organizations and neighborhoods.
Some of Ali’s favorite spots around Johns Creek include restaurants such as Napoli 1 Pizza, Pampas Steakhouse and Noosh Kitchen. Like many others, Ali finds stress relief in shopping. “I’m obsessed with the great finds at Johns Creek’s TJ Maxx as well as All Inspired Boutique,” she says “I also enjoy working out at Lifetime Fitness. It’s a great place to meet people.”
To see more of Ali Leja’s artwork, visitAlilLejaArt.com or follow her on Facebook or Instagram @alilejaart. Commissioned portraits and art pieces are available by request.
