Determined Artist

The Story of Art 4 You in Apex: By Christina McAlister, Owner & Artist

Hello, I’m Christina McAlister — artist, founder of Art 4 You in Apex, NC, and a woman on a mission to connect people through Art, Animals, and Adventure. From a young age, three passions have defined my life: art, animals, and athletics. These passions, rooted in strong Christian values, continue to guide both my personal journey and professional path. Before launching my art studio, I pursued a rigorous academic and corporate career. I earned my Bachelor of Science in Finance and Accounting from the University of Texas at Dallas, graduating top of my class. I also played #1 and #2 singles positions on the university tennis team and joined the golf team for fun — always balancing competitive spirit with creativity. I minored in Visual Arts, staying connected to the artistic voice that had always been part of me. After graduation and halfway through earning my MBA, I was recruited by Cisco Systems to join their elite sales development program. I was honored to be selected as one of only 40 top sales representatives globally, and I went on to earn seven Cisco certifications. My time at Cisco gave me a deep foundation in business, sales, and technology — tools that would later become invaluable when building my own business from the ground up. In 2011, I made a life-changing decision: to step away from the corporate world and become a stay-at-home mom. It was during this season of life that I rediscovered my truest calling — to create a space where art, animals, and nature could come together to inspire, heal, and connect. In 2013, that vision came to life with the birth of Art 4 You. What started as small-group children’s art classes soon grew into something much more:

A creative community space for all ages
A place for animal-assisted art experiences, bringing joy and calm to kids and seniors
A studio where I’ve taught over 1,500 paintings
And a lively mini-farm, now home to goats and ponies and more…that inspire art, laughter, and learning

As Art 4 You grew, I added face painting, private parties, seasonal workshops, and expanded our studio to 750 square feet, fostering a warm, small-group environment where creativity thrives. In 2021, Art 4 You was honored as the Most Loved Visual Arts Center in Cary and Apex — a heartfelt recognition from the community I’m proud to serve. Today, I blend the structure and insight of my business background with the freedom and fulfillment of creative expression. Art 4 You isn’t just a studio — it’s a space where people of all ages can reconnect with themselves, with others, and with the wonder of the world around them. Thank you for supporting this dream — and for allowing me to share my heart with you through Art, Animals, and Adventure.

With love and gratitude,

Christina

Owner & Artist, Art 4 You