We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Alyssa Raymond a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Alyssa thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. We’d love to hear about when you first realized that you wanted to pursue a creative path professionally.

My desire to pursue a professional career in art began in high school. I was given the opportunity to create an installation, which sparked a passion within me. The process of creating something unexpected and witnessing the reaction of others was incredibly satisfying.
Looking back, I realize that my art teacher had recognized my need for more challenging assignments. While I enjoyed drawing and painting, I had yet to explore installation work. So, when she presented me with a blank wall and encouraged me to use my imagination, I was both intrigued and intimidated.
The creative freedom, independence, and trust she bestowed upon me was eye-opening. I responded by creating a unique installation: nine boxes strung together and suspended from the ceiling, each painted with an X or an O in a playful nod to tic-tac-toe. The simplicity and visual appeal of the piece left a lasting impression on me. In that moment, I knew I wanted to pursue a career in public art.
As I went on through college, I studied variety of mediums and became aware of how to tell stories, evoke emotions and make connections with the viewer through art. I really enjoyed all aspects and the objective of being an artist .
I really dove into public art was when I got the opportunity to be an art educator for an amazing school district here in San Antonio, TX, NISD. Here I had an amazing group of fellow artists and fine art leaders that supported public art whole heartedly. In this position I geared my skills through roughly 700 -1000 mini little artists ( aka my students) working with me and it was my job too to share with them the importance of art and what it does for our community. We would create large collaborative installations. I realized in the public school setting collaborative art was very powerful. I caught on to the impact we can had and learned that with the more hands that touch the project the more connections that we were making. Collaborative Installation art was definitely my strength and passion when teaching from 2010 to 2023.
In the school, setting teachers would often approach me to collaborate on promoting specific guidance lessons or event. They knew that in the art room, we were crafting stories and bringing them to life through meaningful mediums and installations in the hallway.. this made me the go to partner for executing their plans and create creative and impactful way to ensure effective collaborations. I learned to ask the right questions. What was our vision and goal? What message they want to convey and to whom? By understanding their objectives I could develop targeted visuals that met their needs. The process was rewarding and the final product was always exciting to see come together.
So this approach to public art prepared me for my independent career path as a muralist in my community. It was the similar there were similar goals however, instead of teachers and academic specialists, I was now working with business and residential clients to help them reach a visual goal. I continue to research on all the different avenues that an artists can have and the possibilities are endless.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

The work that I enjoy creating typically involves femininity and florals. I appreciate balance in my art, meaning in the composition, color palette, and in the concept. I have a passion and appreciation for public art because I understand what design does for the overall ambiance of a place.
I would I want my future clients to know that I am a hard worker. I am an artist with a creative mind. I worked in a profession for 13 years in a public setting. I appreciate the value of consistency and meaningful work to serve others.. I create art for myself yes, but I also create for others. I want my clients to be the happiest with the product that I give them at the end of the day.
I’m most proud of taking the leap to pursue my passion for art as a business. Never did I think I’d be able to work for myself, but through diligent research and consistency, I’ve been able to achieve success, provide for my family, and take on fulfilling projects. I’ve learned that sometimes, non-traditional paths can be riskier, but also incredibly rewarding.
One of my most fulfilling projects to date has been creating three illustrations for Madame Paleta Tequila, a women-owned business. They found my work, appreciated my style, and commissioned me to create pieces that I truly enjoyed making. It was empowering to know that my work was desired, and that I was paid for my time and skills.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

As a passionate advocate for young artists, I recall my own journey as a young artist. I once believed that art could only be a hobby or a relaxing escape. However, through crafting and coloring, I discovered my creative voice and developed a style that resonated with others. I believe that every young artist deserves to tap into this same creative power.
My goal is to advocate for public art, but I’ve come to realize that nurturing young artists is essential to achieving this vision. I believe that every individual has an innate creative spark, which can be dimmed by negative experiences or criticism. I aspire to create an art school setting where young creatives can flourish. Additionally, I envision a digital platform to preserve and celebrate children’s artwork. Ultimately, empowering young artists will ensure a vibrant future for public art.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

As I considered becoming an independent artist, I was unsure what that would entail. I began brainstorming ways to monetize my art, but I hadn’t started using social media. To get the word out, I created flyers and distributed them to my neighbors, announcing a free crafting session on my driveway.
I planned to offer regular classes, rotating between printmaking, drawing, and ceramics. However, my first session was a disappointment. Only my mom, sister, and one kind neighbor attended. My neighbor’s advice to join Facebook was a turning point. I realized that I needed to overcome my fear of sharing my work online and get out of my comfort zone.
I took my neighbor’s advice and joined social media. I started posting my artwork and sharing my passion with a wider audience. As I navigated this new territory, I encountered comfortable and uncomfortable conversations with potential clients. However, I learned to view these interactions as opportunities for growth and improvement.
Through this journey, I’ve come to understand the importance of self-promotion and building trust with clients. With each new experience, I’ve become more confident and proficient in my ability to create and promote my work.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://Alyssaraymonddesigns.com
• Instagram: @alyssa_raymond_designs
• Facebook: Alyssa Raymond

Image Credits

Elexus Allen – Photagrapher