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THE KRI8IVE
Where art & community meet visionary perspectives


Where Stories Take Shape: Learning from Nancy Polo
Dividing her time between the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia and the Veneto region of Italy, Nancy's work explores harmony, storytelling, and the magical spaces that emerge when imagination meets observation. As she writes in her artist statement, "Stories are at the heart of everything in my art," adding that transformation requires "not only attention to details, but an ability to step away from our 'self' to see how one is united with everything else."

Kristin Fiorvanti
Jun 26


Experimenting with Space: Learning from Sonja Garcia
On our day dedicated to experimentation, students in the Summer Fine Arts Academy had the opportunity to learn from painter Sonja Garcia, whose work explores portraiture, identity, and the complex relationship between artist, muse, and viewer. Born and raised in Oahu, Hawai'i and later studying art history and studio practice in Rome, Sonja's paintings investigate both the physicality of paint and the emotional spaces that exist between people. As she writes in her artist sta

Kristin Fiorvanti
Jun 24


Observing Stories: Learning from Alejandro Toro
As part of the Summer Fine Arts Academy, our Middle School students had the opportunity to meet illustrator, cartoonist, and writer Alejandro Toro, whose work explores storytelling through traditional drawing, painting, watercolor, ink, and comics. Born between cultures and having lived across Colombia, Mexico, the United States, Italy, France, and China, Alejandro brings a unique perspective to the stories he tells through images.

Kristin Fiorvanti
Jun 23


Meet Austyn: VIP Donor, Tattoo-Enthusiast, and Brother on a Mission
"You never know how strong you are until being strong is the only choice you have."

Kristin Fiorvanti
Oct 9, 2025


An Early Thank You From the Bottom of My Heart
It’s been an emotional whirlwind to witness our initial fundraising goal not only be met, but exceeded—in just a matter of hours. I’m still processing the depth of that generosity, and I want you to know how much it means to me.

Kristin Fiorvanti
Oct 6, 2025


Discovering “Daughter of the Stars”: Celebrating Women Artists in the DMV
We’re on the cusp of something truly special. Daughter of the Stars, our eagerly anticipated group exhibition at the Melissa Ichiuji...

Kristin Fiorvanti
Oct 5, 2025
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