We recently connected with Alex Yanes 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?
My love for art began in elementary school and I continued to take it as an elective course throughout middle and high school. I found woodworking through skateboarding. Back in the early 90’s, Miami didn’t have the skateparks it has today. My friends and I had to build our own ramps. A jigsaw is the only way to cut the curves required for the sides of the ramps. I use the same tools to fabricate and construct my pieces. I think like most artists, my creative process was perfected through trial and error. Once I merged my passion for art with woodworking, the rest was self-taught.
Alex , before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
My work is unique, colorful and uplifting. I have shown it in art galleries worldwide and even have a few of my pieces in museum collections. I have also collaborated creatively with big brands such as Nike, Coca-Cola, Twitter, Delta, Spotify and most recently Lululemon. I take great pride in my work and am grateful to have my dream job that allows me to express my creativity and inspiration for a living.
For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?
Working with non-profit organizations and charities and using my work to help others. Also, inspiring other artists to chase their passion.
Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?
During the pandemic with all the art galleries closed, projects on hold and opportunities cancelled, I felt lost. As a husband and father to three young girls, the pressure to continue providing was immense. The only outlet to show my work was through social media. I hunkered down and created non-stop and commissioned a friend of mine to revamp my website with an e-commerce store. I began posting my creative process from start to finish and engaged with my audience. Collectors felt connected, they were also home, bored. Watching me create kept them entertained. They supported me throughout and I will always be grateful to my supporters for lifting me up and getting me through.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.alexyanes.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexyanes/?hl=en
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alexyanesart
- Other: Linktree : https://linktr.ee/alexyanes
Image Credits
Duffy Higgins Andrew Thomas Pellegrino