Romanian artist Alexandra Jicol grew up in Bucharest during a time when political oppression and restricted freedoms shaped daily life. Her upbringing was marked by a striking contrast: the calm, restorative environment of the mountains and the energetic chaos of the city. Split between these two worlds, she developed a natural curiosity and a sharp eye for detail. As a child, she often wandered through the Romanian television studios where her mother worked, an experience that gave her an early appreciation for storytelling and visual expression.
Jicol views herself as an observer, moving through life with an open heart and mind. She strives to absorb, reflect, and share her experiences through art. Guided by a philosophy of tolerance and mindfulness, she channels her reflections into deeply personal works that invite viewers to see the world through her lens.
AGS shelter me under the white light …or, NOT
This painting, created on raw Japanese washi paper made by artisans at Fukuro Studio, explores themes of longing, protection, and emotional equilibrium. Measuring 26 x 37.2 inches (67 x 96 cm), the piece combines acrylic, oil sticks, and water crayons. The handmade paper’s natural texture adds a tactile richness, perfectly suited to the layered techniques Jicol employs.
At its center is a round white circle, a symbolic shield that envelops the soul. Within this circle lies an abstract shape that suggests an eye, a tear, or even a fetal form—a representation of the innermost self. The composition is alive with color, each shade carefully chosen to express emotion while maintaining harmony. Curved lines swirl in a dynamic rhythm, evoking a sense of fluidity and sensuality.
Two horizontal lines anchor the piece, providing a sense of stability against the chaotic motion of the circular forms. This balance mirrors the emotional tension between control and surrender. Throughout the painting, hidden words—deliberately written and obscured—act as secretive spells, hinting at deeper layers of meaning.
Jicol’s technical approach involves building up multiple layers of materials, blending heavy acrylics, oil sticks, and water crayons. These layers create a textured surface that changes with light. Depending on the angle and source of illumination, new details emerge, giving the piece an ever-shifting, almost living quality.
Between Muddy Waters and Blue Skies = Purify
This artwork captures the soul’s journey through moments of darkness and light. Painted on Japanese calligraphy paper mounted on a wooden base, it measures 27 x 69 cm and incorporates a mix of acrylic, oil sticks, water crayons, and encaustic techniques.
At the heart of the composition is an eye, symbolizing the soul, suspended between two contrasting realms: the murky waters below and the serene blue skies above. The positioning of the eye closer to the skies suggests an optimism rooted in spiritual growth. Jicol conveys the idea that while the weight of negativity is real, the soul’s natural inclination is toward light and higher aspirations.
A white line—a recurring motif in Jicol’s work—acts as a protective barrier against encroaching darkness. In the upper corner, a radiant sun rendered in gold and encaustic shines as a life-affirming presence. Its warmth and brilliance symbolize renewal and the uplifting power of spiritual connection.
The painting’s surface is rich with texture, created through a process of layering. Some layers are bold and distinct, while others are faint, visible only under specific lighting conditions. This technique gives the work a meditative quality, as viewers must shift perspectives to uncover its hidden depths.
Both of these paintings reveal Alexandra Jicol’s skill for blending deeply personal themes with universal resonance. Her choice of Japanese washi paper reflects a respect for tradition and craftsmanship, while her layered techniques lend her work a multifaceted, transformative quality.
Jicol’s art invites contemplation, drawing viewers into a space where emotions and ideas intersect. Her ability to juxtapose swirling, chaotic forms with stabilizing elements reflects her broader philosophy: life’s turbulence can be navigated through love, balance, and self-awareness.
Rather than providing concrete answers, Jicol’s work asks profound questions about human connection, the nature of protection, and the eternal interplay between light and shadow. Through her intricate textures, hidden symbols, and masterful use of color, she creates pieces that feel both grounded and ethereal.
Her art resonates on an emotional level, offering moments of introspection and connection. In exploring the human condition, Alexandra Jicol crafts visual narratives that linger long after the first viewing, leaving a lasting impression of beauty, depth, and meaning.
