In the Press
Galleria Monique visits residents in assisted living, nursing homesPublished at: Michigan Women's Forum
February 16, 2011 Although Valentine's Day comes but once a year, local art therapy organization Galleria Monique wants to feature an entire "Month of Love" by reaching out to residents in assisted living and nursing homes. The goal is to get people involved—to help the community thrive. After visiting the first home and meeting each resident, Ilich had an enormous feeling of satisfaction. "If my arms were long enough to hug all those people at once, I would have," Ilich said. "It was like walking on air." So far, artist Menka (Monica) Spasovska-Ilich and editor Mekie Kukan have visited the Farmington Healthcare Center and the Detroit Baptist Manor, and both Valentine's parties were quite successful. They made many new friends, which they said was very special for them. "It's amazing to connect with them and see their appreciation through their beautiful smiles and hugs," Ilich said. "When you share your love with them, you receive so much back." |
Ilich wants Galleria Monique to grow, and for more people in the community to team up and work together. She also plans to make the "Month of Love" an annual February event for the Farmington area.
"I feel very blessed as my kids are now older and I'm able to give back," Ilich said. "This gives me so much satisfaction and fulfills my heart. I have so much love for others and I need to share it with them." Ilich expressed thanks to all the local businesses for supporting the idea, and the staff and management for making the visits possible. For more information, please call 248-787-2605 or visit galleriamonique.com. Galleria Monique is a small, Farmington Hills art organization, featuring customized paintings by Menka (Monica) Spasovska Ilich, a Macedonian-American artist. |
Local Artist to Bring Community Together to Feed the HungryPublished at: HometownLife.com, Farmington Observer
October 31, 2010 Menka Spasovska Ilich, artist and owner of Galleria Monique, is gathering local businesses to contribute to a worthy cause — Thanksgiving dinners for the less fortunate. Menka is teaming up with Detroit area church Parks Memorial, whose Rev. William Phillips will be helping to sponsor the event via Zoe Ministry. The main feature of the event will be a silent auction of art by Menka, or Monica as she's known to friends. Her paintings will be on display with photography by Kristopher Ilich. Booths will be available for local artists to rent. Gourmet hors d'oeuvres will be prepared and served by Chef Kenneth Ilich and donated from local restaurants. There will also be arts and crafts as well as games for children. Local musicians are welcome to inquire for live entertainment. The event is scheduled for Friday, Nov. 5 at the Walter E. Sundquist Farmington Pavilion, in the George F. Riley Park. It will be an all-day event, from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Admission: adults $5, seniors $3, and children five years old and under for free. One hundred percent of the proceeds, which includes ticket and artwork revenue, will be going to charity, helping the needy to get a warm Thanksgiving dinner. In order to make this community event possible, Monica is asking local businesses to donate funds, food, or talent, or whatever they can. “Through the small efforts of many, we can create an art event that Michigan residents of all ages can enjoy,” she said. |
This is only the beginning for Galleria Monique, a Farmington Hills art company. Monica's small group of Metro Detroit residents is slowly growing into a community-based art company, with future plans for more art-related volunteer projects. She will also be holding art classes at Farmington Hills' Baptist Manor and Tapiola Village.
Businesses or individuals interested in donating or volunteering should contact Monica at (248) 787-2605 or Menka@GalleriaMonique.com. Also contact Monica to donate art supplies, paper, recyclables, or other materials for the children's arts and crafts program. “By working together, we can celebrate a memorable event that will make a difference in our community,” she said. Local artists who are interested in donating art, selling art, or renting a booth to showcase their art are encouraged to contact Kristopher Ilich at (248) 345-7275 or Facebook.com/kris.ilich. All artwork must be donated by Nov. 3, ready matted or framed. Local musicians interested in performing should also contact Kristopher Ilich. |
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Published at: DowntownNorthville.com
By: Prudy Vannier, Prudy's Studio, Inc. September 2010 Northville Gallery is pleased to introduce artist Monica Spasovska Ilich. Her contemprory paintings reflect remarkable designs, color, and texture that play against and respond to each other. Monica's background in her words: I grew up on a farm in a small town in Macedonia with beautiful mountains and a river valley. I obtained a degree in nursing because I have always liked helping people. I came to America in 1985 when I was married and learned English as a second language. My childhood dreams were inspired by the moss-covered forests of Macedonia. Dreams such as these led to my love of art, which my family and friends have greatly supported. You could "take everything away from me, but leave the art in my heart." |
Monica will give Northville Gallery her personal touch with special decor to create elegant and lush surroundings for her work. Accompanying her will be her gifted sons Chef Kenneth Ilich whose appetizers and desserts will be served, and photographer Kristopher Ilich who will record the event.
Please join us in welcoming Monica Spasovska Ilich to Northville Gallery on October's First Friday. |
More Received Press
Our Promotional Materials
Here are some of the materials we have distributed at our events. Designed by Menka Ilich and Mekie Kukan.
© 2010 - 2012 Menka Spasovska Ilich.

