Interview
Alexandria Volk
Alex is a visual artist who uses her work and talent to bring awareness and attention to the many lives we share our planet with. Animals have always been a topic for this inspiring artist and tends to be her focal point in many of her works.
What is your background and how did you start your journey in the art world?
“My journey as an artist began in the quiet little town of Cuba, New York, during my early teenage years. Growing up as a mixed African American and Irish child, I often felt the sting of exclusion in my community. In search of an escape, I turned to art. What started as a simple outlet transformed into a profound passion that reshaped my entire worldview and helped me uncover my self-worth. Art became my refuge and my guide, instilling in me the courage to explore new horizons and understand who I wanted to be. Each brushstroke and sketch was a step toward self-discovery, allowing me to see life through a more vibrant lens. I dabbled in various career paths - zoology, construction, and computer science - each experience enriching my journey. It was in Pittsburgh, a city that holds a special place in my heart, where I immersed myself in game design and 2D animation. However, life took a turn when my late father suffered a stroke, prompting my return to New York. His passing left a void that made it difficult to chase my dreams. In that moment of uncertainty, I decided to take a leap of faith. I packed my truck and hit the road with no destination in mind. After ten hours of driving, my truck broke down in Peoria, Illinois - a place I never anticipated but where I found a new beginning. Since 2016, Peoria has become my home, and I have embraced this community with open arms. I now have my own studio, a sanctuary where I can devote my time to the one thing that has always kept me moving forward: art. It’s a testament to resilience and the power of creativity. Every day, I remind myself that despite the struggles and detours, art is not just my passion - it's my lifeline, my purpose, and a celebration of the journey that has shaped me. As I continue to explore and create, I hold onto the belief that every challenge can lead to new opportunities and that our stories, no matter how winding, can inspire others to embrace their own paths.”
What inspires you?
“I find it hard to pick just one thing that inspires me when many different people, places and things contribute to my love for art. But if I could sum it all together, I would say life inspires me. All the good and the bad, meeting people and Llearning about their own struggles and successes, failures and perseverance.”
What themes do you pursue? Is there an underlying message in your work?
“Actually quite recently, I have been working on pieces that are a bit harder to hear. I call them my awareness pieces and they focus on topics such as animal testing, over population, and climate change. These are still very new works for me, since I genuinely try to keep my work family friendly however, as I have grown older and have created a family of my own, I find many of these topics hard to ignore. If my work can get just one person to stop and think about the rippled and waves we have on our entire planet that that would be enough for me.”
How would you describe your work?
“I find my own work to be inspirational and beautiful. Pushing people to not only love themselves but to love the world around them. Though I have a long way to go I have also come a long way on my artist path.”
Which artists influence you most?
“My mother, Janice Volk has become a driving force, not only in my artist goals but life goals as well. Being an artist herself, I have watched her grow as a person. Losing my father; the love of her life, has changed her but also has shown me just how strong of a women she is. Both her and my father went through hardships as a inter racial couple and despite the world pushing against them they have created a beautiful life for me and my siblings. Giving us the tools we needed to survive the things we can not control.”
“Normal work isn't for me. I feel anxious because I'm not a people person, and at work, I have to interact with dozens of people daily. I'm more of a lone wolf, comfortable in my own bubble where I can create and embrace my introverted self.”
What is your creative process like?
“I won't pretend I have an organized process. I don't. Most days, I practice and doodle but then there are days where I just have to get an idea on canvas or paper. I begin with finding my own references either by visiting a location and taking pictures or listening to music and letting my mind fill with design. Other times, I call on the community here in Peoria that support me and invite people of all ages and skill levels to paint with me at my studio. I find it amazing how others see and view the world and it really puts a spark into my own work.”
What is an artist’s role in society and how do you see that evolving?
“Artists are the unsung heroes of our society, weaving the fabric of culture and innovation through creativity. From the striking architecture that shapes our cities to the evocative melodies that stir our souls, artists breathe life into the world around us. They challenge our perspectives, ignite our imaginations, and inspire change in ways that often go unnoticed. Even the vehicles we use be it travel or construction was made by an artist. Our foundations to the society we have today.”
Have you had any noteworthy exhibitions you'd like to share?
“Recently, I was involved in a big event here in Peoria called ignite. It is an event that showcases artist and creators alike and allows them to share their work and knowledge with the community. My involvement with Art Partners and the Peoria community has influenced me to start my own classes to offer everyone a judgmental free place to paint and express themselves at my studio. I was also accepted into the Dark Arts Macrabe gallery to share my awareness pieces and provide a seprate place for people to enjoy the harder to face works.”
Instagram: @lost.coloura
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