By Rich Horton
In my spare time, I find artists to hang at The Coffee Shop Northeast and since I have been doing that I have met some great artists. Alexandra Motz sent me an email a couple years ago wanting to put her artwork up. What struck me about her art, is that it had a certain style to it, shapes and color fitting together to create unique pieces
I am not an art critic, but what I have seen while being an amateur curator is that art that is stylistic and unique seems to gather more interest. Motz’s work definitely has its own style, and it’s great to watch people come into the shop and see them being drawn to her art.
I had her answer some questions for Rift, to see what is behind these cool works of art she produces. Her art is up at The Coffee Shop NE, until the end of October.
Rift: What mediums have you worked in.
Alexandra: I’ve dabbled with clay, metals, and jewelry making in the past. I feel like I have found my nitch with painting. Although – I have also been playing around with a lot of Mixed Media on canvas lately.
Rift: How long have been doing art?
Alexandra: My mother was an artist and I have been playing in her studio since I was 5. Art was a major part of my childhood. I kind of just stuck with it when I became an adult. The past 2 years I have been painting a bit more seriously and doing a lot more shows.
Rift: Is art a full time or part time deal, what is your day job if you have one.
Alexandra: Painting is more of an enjoyment for me rather than a full-time gig. I do spend quite a bit of my free time dabbling with a paint brush more often than not. When I’m not painting you can find me at my full-time gig playing with sugar as a Pastry Chef.
Rift: Any influences? Local Artists that you admire?
Alexandra: I cannot express enough how awesome our artist community here in Minneapolis is. Everyone here is very talented and has so much to offer from one artist to another. I try to support as many local artists and shops as possible, as should you!
Rift: Do you have a philosophy on art?
Alexandra: I would say there is no right way or wrong way when it comes to art. You do what you want, and there’s no judging in that. It’s amazing how a group of people can be asked to create one thing or an object – and each artist comes up with their own interpretation. It’s incredible to see the minds of each individual and where it will take you.
Rift: What inspires you?
Alexandra: I find influences throughout nature and it’s natural geometry. I try to take objects out of everyday life and re-create it on canvas. A flower has symmetrical geometry – I’ll take that and put my own abstract playful geometric touch to it. This goes for everything – a bike, a tree, skyline, the river..etc.
Rift: What are your plans for your art, now and into the future?
Alexandra: Right now I plan on expanding my knowledge as much as possible within the local community. I hope art with always be a part of my life into the future. I would love to travel and see what else is out there. Venture into Europe and visit old buildings – architecture in itself is a masterpiece.
Rift: Any advice for up and coming artists?
Alexandra: Do what you love, find something you’re passionate about – and let it overtake you. Don’t let people tell you what to create. Create your own vision for yourself and stick with it. Keep busy, stay passionate, and always strive to grow and expand you’re knowledge/creations.
Rift: If you could give one piece of advice to anyone what would it be?
Alexandra: Love yourself and stay humble.
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