Imelda Golik’s architectural watercolors and sketches can be seen in private collections around the globe. As you view her work you will begin to understand the places she has been and the influence they have had on her; Historic architecture recreated through thin lines and a pull of color from a brush, a twisting tower framed by a wash of blue sky, or the Security Building in downtown Fresno stretching sky high. Her works embody the multicultural tapestry of experiences that have made up her life’s journey thus far.
Imelda was born in Syria, however Imelda’s family strongly believed in the equality of women and relocated to South America when she was 2 year old in order to provide more opportunities for the women in the family. While living in Venezuela Imelda was exposed to many different ideas and diverse cultural practices. Imelda’s artistic talents blossomed under the guidance of strong female role models. Her mother Ana, a renowned porcelain artist, fashion designer and her future mother in law, Luisa, who taught her Imelda oil painting. Both played an important role in her artist development. Luisa would also teach Imelda an appreciation for the beauty found in Europe which would lead to a life time of fascination and exploration of this continent rich with history and architectural beauty.
At 11 Imelda was forced to leave Venezuela and relocated to Fresno where her family joined her a year later. She found a new home at the Sacred Heart School in Fresno and thrived in her new environment. She graduated from San Joaquin Memorial High School and went on to earn her Bachelor’s Degree in Architecture from California Polytechnic University at San Luis Obispo. During her senior year Imelda chose to study abroad and spent a year in Spain. She developed a deep appreciation for the “White Town” in Andalucia. She was fascinated with the way the city influenced the lives of its citizens, and yearned to explore the design which creates this phenomenon.
Imelda returned home and pursued her Master’s degree at her alma mater. She was in fact, the first woman to graduate with a Master’s Degree in Architecture from California Polytechnic University at San Luis Obispo. Her Master’s thesis explored a city design which encouraged interaction with its residents; the development of the pedestrian city center with an emphasis on the Fulton Mall pedestrian center.
Imelda Golik has more than four decades of experience as a practicing Architect. She has published in local and national design journals and has won design awards for her work. She has shared her passion as an instructor of design courses in the Arts and Humanities Department at California State University Fresno for the last 14 years. She continually inspires her students and has been nationally recognized for her contributions over her accomplished career.
Be sure to join us for Imelda Golik’s ArtHop reception. The opening reception will be held during our third Thursday ArtHop, September 17th from 5 – 8 PM. As always this event is free and open to the public so bring a friend and explore the architectural watercolors and sketches of Imelda Golik.
