We were lucky to catch up with Alex Allen recently and have shared our conversation below.

Alex , thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Can you talk to us about a risk you’ve taken – walk us through the story?

The biggest risk I took was the one that led me to the journey I’m on today. About 5 years ago I was working factory jobs to save money to create art full time.

One day, I left. Earlier than I planned and I was scared out of mind. I felt this way for months but somehow pushed through.

That summer I was offered a mural gig, my first public art project. I never considered doing murals at the time, I was solely a canvas painter. It was that week when my whole life changed, I knew it and I felt it. I was hooked.

Since then, I’ve painted close to 100 murals, large & small, indoor & outdoor. I’m so grateful I found my passion and I absolutely love this journey I’m on.

I feel like I’m just getting started and I can’t wait to see what the future holds.

Alex , love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I am a 29-year-old traveling muralist & curator based in South Bend, IN.

My work ranges from large scale interior/exterior murals to smaller portraits on canvas. I also like to paint murals on tables and instruments for fun. Additionally, I paint logos for businesses on the side. My style consists of geometric color portals to florals to portraits. I tend to go a few months exploring each style, and when I need a change I jump to the next. I never get bored & I feel so lucky to say that.

Although I believe I am just starting out, I’m so proud of how far I’ve come. I went from only being able to paint on the weekends while working in those factories, to painting and traveling to new cities and meeting new people everyday. I believe it’s important to look back and remind yourself how far you’ve come when things get hard.

The reason I am where I’m at in my career is discipline, and an insane love and passion for art in general. For me, those two things combined is the key to longevity.

Although I have clients and have deadlines to meet, I am my own boss and I love the freedom that comes with that. I make my own schedule and goals for myself each week. As I get older, I try to take on work with meaning and work that helps me grow as a person.

One of my biggest goals now is to find ways to work with the youth a few times a year. I want to inspire them and be an good example that you can have a fulfilling career as an artist.

I think what sets me apart from others is my spirit. I want to encourage & inspire others to live their truth, too.

How did you put together the initial capital you needed to start your business?

I believe every success story starts with someone taking a leap in whatever path they are passionate about.

For me, before the leap came planning. I mentally prepared and planned what it would look like to be a full-time artist for a year. I figured out my budget and tried to have a decent savings to pay bills for a while.

I found that as cliche as it sounds, sometimes you just have to jump in. When I left my job I don’t think I was as ready as I wanted to be, but it was the best decision I’ve ever made.

Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?

I believe it’s important to have a page dedicated to just your business/art for potential clients. Whether that be instagram or your website- just a place to show your work.

My biggest advice is consistency. I started getting into reels a few years ago. I think it’s a special element to show others an inside view to the creating process.

When I’m doing a mural, canvas, or art project, I like to create a fun reel on top of the final photos. This allows me to add my personal touch to it & I love it it because it doesn’t feel like work.

Social media presence of course doesn’t happen over night and I think it’s important not to look at the numbers. Share what makes you happy, share what you enjoy doing and the right people will follow.

Contact Info:

• Website: Alexannallen.com
• Instagram: alex_ann_allen
• Facebook: Alex Ann Allen