“We put so much pressure on young athletes to define themselves by their sport,” she writes in her latest post. “But a dream is not a destination. It’s a direction. You can change direction. You can climb higher. You just have to be brave enough to let go of the last bar and reach for the next one.”
The project is anchored around several pivotal themes, each meticulously woven into the fabric of the artworks. The notion of chasing a new dream serves as both the title and the thematic linchpin, encapsulating the essence of human aspiration and the perpetual quest for meaning. Through her art, Alina Angel poses fundamental questions: What does it mean to dream in a world that often seems devoid of hope? How do we pursue our aspirations in the face of adversity? And what does it truly mean to chase a dream? alina angel chasing new dream
For nearly a decade, the name Alina Angel was synonymous with the golden era of rhythmic gymnastics in Eastern Europe. With a spine made of steel and the grace of a swan, she captivated judges and audiences alike, amassing a collection of European Championship medals and two Olympic final appearances. But at 26, an age considered "veteran" in a sport dominated by teenagers, Alina hung up her ribbon and hoop for good. “We put so much pressure on young athletes
The journey has not been easy. The first hurdle was financial. While a celebrated athlete in her home country, Alina was not a global superstar. Prize money and sponsorship dried up quickly after retirement. To fund her flight school, which costs over €60,000 for full training, she sold her competition leotards, launched a small online business selling handmade gymnastics grips, and took a night job as a hotel receptionist. You can change direction
The artworks resonate on a visceral level, evoking a range of emotions from introspective melancholy to exuberant joy. This emotional depth is a testament to Alina Angel's skill as an artist and her ability to connect with her audience on a fundamental level.