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

Alexis, appreciate you joining us today. Let’s start with the story of your mission. What should we know?

I only recently was asked if I had an artist’s statement. As a writer, I never thought about it, but writers should have a mission established. Our “why” is our everything. So here is mine…

Fairy tales are not merely for children. In fact, I believe our need for them only increases as we get older and become corrupted by the monsters of the world. This is why I tell stories. I want jaded adults to go deep into the furnace of their hearts where hope, redemption, and rebirth may be only embers. I want their imaginations to be inspired so fervently that those embers burst into sustainable flames. I want anyone to know they can have a second chance, or a third, or a fourth (you get the idea). Redemption is possible. True love is possible. The metamorphosis of self is possible. By drawing from fairy tales, myths, legends, and above all, my religious faith, I build worlds and create characters who march through the ordinary in extraordinary ways. In screenplays, novels, advertisements, and online content, I endeavor to tell stories with no limitations on genres or mediums.

The page is only the beginning.

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.

Though writing is my bread and butter, I am a champion for the arts in general. I dance, sing, and even draw sometimes. I like to inspire people to be their authentic selves. I am a copywriter and ideator for a multicultural marketing agency by day and a screenwriter and budding producer by night. I assist film festivals and support my fellow artists. I choose to be a banner-waver for creative industries and those who work within them.

Have you ever had to pivot?

I have endured a complete life upheaval in the past two years. One of the significant changes was finding a place at an ad agency for multicultural markets. Writing for ads and social media wasn’t in my education or work history. To get a degree much later than most (in my late 30s) and to embark on a new career path within the span of a few months was daunting, but also incredibly exciting. I’ve been blessed since moving to Los Angeles nine months ago. I’ve transformed into a stronger writer, thinker, and human being. I enjoy what I do, the people I get to collaborate with, and the heart behind my agency’s mission. I have discovered that random skills and experiences I’ve had in my life are not so random at all. Rather, they have empowered me to contribute to the industries I touch.

Are there any books, videos or other content that you feel have meaningfully impacted your thinking?

For personal and professional growth and development: “Atomic Habits” by James Clear

For my career change and understanding the art of advertising: “Hey Whipple, Squeeze This: The Classic Guide to Creating Great Advertising” by Luke Sullivan

For my inner journey as a creative and a person of faith: “Art and Faith: A Theology of Making” by Makoto Fujimura. Honestly, I recommend all of his books.

Contact Info:

• Website: http://www.phoenicianrises.com/
• Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/alexis-p-johnson-395b1243

Image Credits
Short film poster and book cover art by Danielle Pajak