We recently connected with Alex Eickhoff and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Alex, thanks for joining us today. Can you talk to us about how you learned to do what you do?

Creating art, mostly drawing, has always been a way I have spent idle time, since as early as I can remember. My parents and grandparents would give me paper and crayons to occupy my restless mind while they had adult conversations. They noticed I had a knack for observational drawing pretty early and I received validation for my abilities. So naturally I identified with my ability to draw pretty early in life. I’ve learned that attention, focus and mindfulness are the most important skills for my creative process. More important than any natural talent for art making, has been my ability to get lost in the moment and enter the flow state. Beyond that, my artistic skills have been built on the support of my mentors throughout life, the belief that I am gifted(and the obligations that come from that), and simply watching other artists work (YouTube!!!)
My biggest obstacle in becoming the best version of my artist self, has been mindset. Until a few years ago I just hadn’t committed 100% to the artist lifestyle. Art was always there, but I let myself get distracted by other possibilities like girls, sports, music. Trying to be a jack of all trades, but lacking the discipline and focus to master my art. Being content with being “one of the best” in class, and not trying to really develop my skills for the sake of my long term growth.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers?

At this point in time I am primarily focused on painting murals. I have recognized the potential impact murals have on communities and the individuals within, and I wish to use that power to bring more good vibes to the public space. When I paint a mural I try to create a memorable moment, something truly unique, and moving for anyone who views it. I see myself as not only a visual artist, but an energy worker. I put all my energy into every mural I paint, and I believe that energy is transferred to the viewer, if they are open to experiencing it. If my work can allow someone to forget about their stress for even a moment, I consider it a success.

Clients that I am best able to serve, are those who wish to transform their ordinary space into a unique experience. So if you are looking to truly create a VIBE for your place, I’m your guy.

Selfishly I paint because it gives me a sense of purpose, and I am particularly motivated by the challenge of large scale murals. I guess I chase the feeling of achievement that comes from overcoming these challenges.

In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?

I think people, especially building owners in the public spaces, could better understand the value and impact that murals can make in a setting. In these 3 years of building my mural career, I have had to do a lot of convincing of my worth. Murals are expensive to create. The materials, the time, the risk involved, and the skills/vision required to make it happen have all been underestimated in my experience. Even when people are enthusiastic about having a mural painted, there is often sticker shock when quoted a price. It can be costly, but the impact of truly great mural work, which I am confident I can provide, is priceless. Also shout out to all my past clients who have “let go and let God” and truly trusted the artistic process. This faith in creativity has brought out my best work.

Have you ever had to pivot?

After obtaining my BFA from Truman State University, I went into the work force, earning money and discipline as a laborer. But I wasn’t feeling fulfilled by my work, and my art making was put on the back burner. It felt like I was dying inside. I had heard artists say things like “I need to create, and when I don’t it hurts.” But I only was able to relate to that sentiment after working for 4 years while neglecting my creative journey. So I decided to dive further into my full time job, picking up overtime and living extremely frugally in order to save money so I could quit my job and pursue art full time, giving it all my focus and energy. That was 3 years ago that I took the leap. The first two years, I was building the habit of creating daily. I depleted some savings while building my brand and honing in on my style. I am finally to a point where I have successfully replaced my income with my art.

Contact Info:

• Website: Eyecough.com
• Instagram: @eye_cough
• Facebook: Eye cough art
• Linkedin: Eye cough art
• Twitter: @eye_cough
• Youtube: Eye cough
• Other: Watch my YouTube videos to learn more about my process and get an insider perspective on my art journey.

Image Credits
Personal photo and blue heron mural shot: @jaren.kerr