A Community Connection Through Art.
When art and community come together, something beautiful happens. That was exactly the case when Sol Gallery was invited to support the CRIA (Costa Rica International Academy) annual gala and fundraiser.
It all started on a Saturday night at the gallery. A local neighbor struck up a conversation with artist and gallery director Alex Starre during the opening night of Rising Tides: An Immersive Ocean Art Experience. She was helping organize the CRIA gala and asked if Sol Gallery would be open to donating a piece to support the school’s event. Without hesitation, Alex said yes.
Plans Shift, But Purpose Remains
Originally planned as a glamorous gala night, the event had to shift gears due to unforeseen events. Instead of canceling altogether, the organizers turned the fundraiser into a two-week online auction—reaching even more people across the community. And despite the change, enthusiasm for Sol’s donated artwork remained strong.
The piece chosen for donation, titled Into the Unknown, is a mixed media painting by Alex Starre that captures the fluid movement of nature with texture, light, and tone. The swirling wave motif speaks to Costa Rica’s coastal essence and the quiet strength it inspires.
A New Home and a Happy Collector
Bidding interest was high, and when the auction closed, Into the Unknown had found its new home. A very happy collector came to pick up the piece with her equally excited son, who proudly helped carry it out of the gallery.
For Sol Gallery, giving back isn’t just about art—it’s about building relationships, nurturing creativity, and supporting the people and organizations that make our region thrive.
Thank You, CRIA
We’re grateful to be part of this vibrant and giving community, and we look forward to more partnerships like this in the future. A big thank you to the CRIA Parent Association and everyone who helped make this collaboration happen!
Interested in partnering with Sol Gallery for a fundraiser, auction, or community event? Please contact us or stop by the gallery, just outside of Tamarindo, to say hello!
OTHER WORKS BY ALEX STARRE