We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Alexandra Russell. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Alexandra below.

Alexandra, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. It’s always helpful to hear about times when someone’s had to take a risk – how did they think through the decision, why did they take the risk, and what ended up happening. We’d love to hear about a risk you’ve taken.

I think being an artist and risk-taking are somewhat synonymous, and I’ve grown to become comfortable with perfection within imperfection. Throughout my journey in defining my style and learning different mediums, there has always an element of risk. It could be something small like drawing a line in a seemingly random place on a portrait or something bigger like financially investing in having your art seen.

Most recently, my biggest risk has been the latter. Over the summer, I participated in the Other Art Fair presented by Saatchi Art in New York City. It was my first big art exhibition I’ve participated in, and the pressure was on. I took, “the bigger the risk, the bigger the reward” to heart. I tapped into money that I’ve made with my art business over the year and spent a pretty penny to participate in the fair. I was so excited that I got accepted, that I knew it would all be worth it.

Overall, it ended up being such an amazing experience. Since I have a full time job as a brand strategist within marketing and media, I often find it hard to balance my artistic endeavors with my 9-5. But being in an environment filled with talented artists who have all, at some point, taken a risk to be where they are right now was extremely inspiring for me. I made a lot of friends, and got a sneak peek into what’s in store for me in the future. I also was able to make all the money I spent on booth back, which was the cherry on top. I was overwhelmed with positivity and great energy in the best way possible.

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

I am a visual and fine artist specializing in charcoal, digital, paint, and pencil. I own a business called PerpLEXd Creative where I sell my art prints, customized commissions, and offer marketing services. I like to think of it as my own boutique creative agency.

As far as my clientele, people mostly come to me to recreate some of their favorite photos and memories to gift to others, which I think is very special. I also provide creative and marketing strategy consulting for people who need guidance on how to establish themselves in the market and create a visual identity. I think this sets me apart because not only do I provide a special spin through my artistic style and gifts, but I also help guide people on how to improve their passion projects.

I would like to encourage potential clients and followers to come with me on my journey to self-discovery. The sky is the limit when it comes to my creativity, and I have a lot of things that I want to accomplish. I love to showcase my gifts and talents in different lenses, and I’m steadily on the path to walking in my purpose.

We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?

A lesson I had to unlearn, and I’m still unlearning is comparing myself to others. I think in the era of social media and short form content that we’re in, it’s super easy to look at other creators and feel discouraged about where you are in your path. But it is always important to remember that social media is more often than not a depiction of the highlights of a person’s life. So staying grounded in my work and focusing on being the best person and artist that I can be has helped me learn that lesson.

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

I think the goal driving my creative journey is storytelling from the lens of young black female creative. I’m very inspired by Issa Rae, Donald Glover, and Tyler the Creator because I think they do a great job of telling authentic stories no matter how awkward, uncomfortable, or random they might be. The black experience is different for everyone and very nuanced, and there’s beauty in those nuances, so being able to exemplify my journey through my art is what drives me.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.perplexdcreative.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/perplexdcreative/?hl=en
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexandra-russell-7674b5aa/