Allie's Art: Local artist thrives and inspires
ANDERSON TOWNSHIP, Ohio (WKRC) - Allie Guard is an Anderson Township woman with Down syndrome, pushing obstacles to the side and meeting her dream to become an artist.
Bold, bright and beautiful. It's how you might describe the artwork you see here. "The magnets are my favorite things. You can put them on the refrigerator and they hold pictures."
It's also how you'd describe the artist behind the work. "I have a pattern. I start in the corner or start in the middle and I watch it come alive."
Ever since she can remember, Allie has wanted to be an artist. "I see myself as famous because that's my dream."
"Took every art class she could through school and in high school and was just constantly coloring or doodling or drawing or making collages." Allie's mother, Sharon, took an active role in helping her daughter achieve her lifelong dream.
It's something that's not lost on Allie. "It's wonderful to have a dad and a mom encourage their daughter."
From framed mosaics to wearable jewelry, each piece is a reflection of Allie's creativity, a peak into her soul. "She just has an amazing way of putting color together. She has a vision in her head and when you ask her, how do you do this? How does it come so beautifully? And she says, I just know, and so I just think she has a gift."
"Through various art shows she's done here in the Tri-State, Allie's work can now be found in several different establishments, including the Metallic Giraffe in Western Hills. "She colors, her mother turns it into the artwork. It's bright hues. It's just gorgeous and nothing like it," says Metallic Giraffe owner Ronda Siefke.
She didn't set out to be an inspiration but it's a role that suits Allie very well. "Follow your heart and chase your dreams. Don't stop believing."
You can learn more about Allie and her artwork on her website.
