We had the good fortune of connecting with Alexandra Smith and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Alexandra, why did you pursue a creative career?
Art always been a hobby for me since I was young. I would even say an obsession. Art is so much more than meets the eye. It is an expression of our thoughts, emotions, intuitions, and desires. And on a more personal level, it’s about sharing the way we experience the world.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I think what sets me apart from other artists is, when it comes to art, I have no boundaries. I like painting, drawing, photography and digital art. I am constantly exploring new skills, new software, new genres and new ideas. For me, there is no greater pleasure than finding genuine growth and improvement in my art projects. I like mixed media and taking realism and mixing that with abstract elements. I like taking my philosophical ideas and beliefs and expressing them through my art with symbolism and natural expression. I try not to hold myself back… I steer clear from putting myself in a box.
As a child, I struggled to find my place in the world. I had always felt misunderstood. I was rebellious because I saw all of the faults in the world. And, at a very young age, experienced domestic violence. Since then I have struggled with mental health. These challenges helped me to become a stronger version of myself and inspired me to create even more. Art was where I felt I fit in. Creating has always felt like home to me. It has not been easy to get to where I am today and I am still working hard to build my business, expand my skillset and meet my standards of success.
I am now creating logos, magazine covers, marketing materials, book covers, websites, swag and more. In my free time I paint, draw and explore fine art. I am happier than I have ever been. I can take peoples dreams and make them a reality. I can take my dreams and make them a reality! I want any young aspiring artists to know that you can do it. You can create and you can do it as a full time job. If you want something bad enough you will make it work. There are always going to be hurdles but if you love what you do it will always be worth it.
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I have so many favorite spots in the Denver area.
I am a bit of a foodie! I really enjoy hole-in-the-wall restaurants where the atmosphere is unique and the food is amazing. My favorite restaurants are: Jett Sushi, Angelo’s Taverna, Las Potrancas Mexican Restaurant, Delectable Egg, Beau Jo’s, Charlie Brown’s Bar & Grill and The Arvada Tavern. If you are looking for a fancy dinner and are up for spending more money, Tamaki Den has the best sushi I have ever had. If you are on the way up to the mountains for a hike or skiing Big Daddy’s Bagels in Golden is the best stop for some killer breakfast sammies.
RIVER in Rino has free comedy night, which is always a great time. For a more upscale comedy show I like to go to Comedy Works in Denver.
As far as hikes go… Maxwell Falls is close enough to Denver and is such a beautiful hike. Chavez and Beaver Brook Trail Loop is another one of my favorites close to the city. If you are up for a backpack adventure the Four Pass Loop in Aspen is my favorite. It is a 27.5 mile loop and is challenging and it has extraordinary views. And finally, Nederland is a beautiful small town with many adventures!
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My first shoutout goes to my dad. He inspired me to create since I was a young child. When I was three years old he would take me out to gather golf balls from bushes near a golf course. We would bring them home and paint them. When I was three or four years old my dad taught me to meditate. And after, at nineteen, he introduced me to yoga. My dad has always been my inspiration and is the one who helped make me who I am today.
My second shoutout goes to my best friend, Grace. In high school, she pushed me to keep making art no matter what and would tell me how talented I was. Grace has always inspired me and is one of the reasons I didn’t give up on my dream as an artist.
Lastly, Stephanie, my girlfriend for being endlessly supportive and for being my muse.
Website: alexandracarolinedesign.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexandracarolinedesign/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexandracarolinedesign/