GalleriaGeorgiAna

I was born in the country of Georgia into a family of three generations of artists. I grew up in a home that resembled a museum – Tapestries hung on the walls, sculptures occupied corners, and conversations about art, history, culture, and beauty surrounded me constantly. Art was never something distant or abstract in my life, it was woven into the very fiber of my being.

In 2002, my family and I moved to the United States after my father was invited for artist residency programs. Suddenly, I found myself navigating a completely new world and language, yet creativity remained the thread connecting my old life to my new one. While exploring our newfound home, my parents would take me to the Smithsonian museums, their own gallery openings, and my favorite, Old Town Alexandria. The city’s historic architecture, cobblestone streets, waterfront atmosphere, and intimate artistic community reminded me of Europe and of home. As a child wandering through the galleries of the Torpedo Factory Art Center, I never could have imagined that one day I would become one of the resident artists myself.

Over the years, I explored everything from fashion design and photography to tapestry weaving, but jewelry consistently remained my greatest fascination. Despite this instinctive pull toward art, I tried to run from the path for many years because I understood firsthand the sacrifices and instability that often accompany a creative life. I decided to pursue archaeology, a field that still allowed me to remain close to beauty, history, symbolism, and human craftsmanship. I studied abroad, traveled extensively, and participated in archaeological excavations of ancient sites. Yet, no matter where I was in the world, I always carried a sketchbook filled with jewelry designs I hoped to one day bring to life.

During undergraduate studies, I interned at Smithsonian and at the Alexandria Archaeology Museum located on the third floor of the Torpedo Factory. After completing my Master’s degree in Mediterranean Archaeology at University College London, my very first job was at The Art League, also located inside the Torpedo Factory. It seemed that no matter where life took me, my path continually led me back to the Art Center, as though destiny had been quietly calling me to begin my artistic journey all along. It was there that I finally enrolled in my first metalsmithing and cloisonné enameling classes. The moment I began learning the process, I knew with complete certainty that I had found my true calling. After years of trying to avoid this path, I finally stopped running from it.

In 2016, I came up with the name GalleriaGeorgiAna as I was opening up my first Etsy Shop. The name felt deeply personal as it incorporated my own name while paying homage to my Georgian roots and the artistic influences that shaped me. To this day, I carry the name with immense pride as the brand continues to grow and evolve.

In 2020, I introduced a secondary jewelry line called SimpliAni, featuring handcrafted natural gemstone jewelry. While my enamel work leans toward bespoke statement pieces, SimpliAni allows me to create delicate everyday jewelry that retain the same sense of beauty, elegance and intentionality at a more accessible price.

I’ve become deeply immersed in the fabric of the Old Town community. Over the last decade, I managed several local jewelry companies and an upscale boutique. Through local events, collaborations, philanthropic and styling opportunities, I slowly built meaningful relationships throughout the area. As I was transitioning toward opening my own gallery, I was featured in Alexandria Stylebook: Street Style, a moment that reflected how intertwined my life had become within the fashion and creative community of Old Town.

Philanthropy has become deeply intertwined with both my artistic journey and my role as a business owner. I believe that art can be more than an object of beauty; it can serve as a vehicle for awareness, connection, inspiration, and meaningful change. Through my work, I strive to create pieces that not only empower those who wear them, but also to find ways to bring lasting impact on the local community and beyond.

Following the outbreak of the war in Ukraine in 2022, I began creating my ongoing Solidarity for Ukraine series. A portion of the proceeds from each piece sold is donated to United Help Ukraine. Other causes and organizations I have supported through my work include the Washington Tennis & Education Foundation, and Willing Warriors.

This year marks my third consecutive year donating a jewelry piece to the Old Town Festival of Speed & Style, which benefits organizations such as Community Lodgings, ALIVE!, and the Breast Cancer Collective. What began as an annual contribution evolved into an incredible opportunity to model, curate the fashion and serve as the festival’s Official Jewelry Stylist for both the photoshoot and fashion show.

Experiences like these have reinforced for me that some of the most rewarding aspects of building a business are the connections, collaborations, and opportunities to uplift others along the way. One of the greatest joys in my life is walking through the streets of Old Town and constantly running into familiar faces, clients, former colleagues, greeting fellow business owners and even waving at mail carriers. Those everyday interactions are a reminder of the vibrant community of Alexandria – the first place that has truly felt like home.

Today, my gallery (#222) embodies the vision I spent years building: an atmosphere that feels elegant yet welcoming, luxurious yet approachable, and rooted in a deep appreciation for artistry, passion and human connection.

Whether you’re searching for a meaningful gift, a future heirloom, or simply a moment of peace and beauty, I invite you to stop by, enjoy an espresso, and experience the craftsmanship behind each piece firsthand.

By,

Ana Tkabladze
Torpedo Factory Art Center Studio #222

More from Ana

The Art of Becoming 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vhVVAJajCQ0

Atlantis: The Evolution of a Craft

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZGRCYAZGAiE