Conversations with Alexandra Sorto

Today we’d like to introduce you to Alexandra Sorto.

Hi Alexandra, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I’ve always been drawn to creating. As a child, you could usually find me drawing, coloring, or making little sculptures out of the red Georgia clay in my backyard. Creativity was simply part of who I was. I truly believe everyone is born creative, and somewhere along the way many of us lose the fearless, imaginative way we created as children. One of my greatest passions today is helping people reconnect with that creativity.
Growing up in Gwinnett County, Georgia, I was fortunate to have incredible art teachers who encouraged me. Art became much more than something I enjoyed, it became how I processed life. My high school art teacher, Debi West, helped me realize art could become a career.
At 17, I was given my first major mural opportunity, and at 18 I opened my first brick-and-mortar art studio while earning my bachelor’s degree. What began as a bachelor’s eventually grew into a master’s degree, teaching certification, and now an Educational Specialist degree.
One of the most meaningful moments of my career came when I returned to teach visual art at North Gwinnett High School, the very classroom where I had once been a student. Through Artazandra, I now blend education, entrepreneurship, public art, fine art, and community engagement into one career.
The name Artazandra is deeply personal. My full name is Alexandra, but my dad always called me ‘Zandra.’ When I formed my LLC in 2018, I wanted a name that reflected both my love for art and my family.
Whether I’m creating artwork, mentoring students, or collaborating with communities, my goal is always the same: to create meaningful experiences that transform places, cultivate creativity, and bring people together.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
One of the greatest challenges I’ve faced has been learning to wear many hats at once. By 25, I was raising four children, earning multiple college degrees, beginning my teaching career, and growing Artazandra. There were seasons when all of those responsibilities felt overwhelming, but I never gave up on myself.
I’ve always believed that if you break a big goal down into bite-sized pieces and just keep chewing, you’ll eventually reach the desired outcome. Big dreams are built one decision, one day, and one step at a time.
Success is never a solo journey. So many people believed in me and opened doors for me. Those opportunities inspire me to do the same for others. I hope to open doors for others the way so many people opened doors for me because I truly believe we’re better together.
My purpose has remained the same: to create artwork that makes people smile, strengthens communities, and reminds people that creativity belongs everywhere.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I specialize in creating meaningful visual experiences through public art, fine art, education, and community-centered design. Whether I’m creating a mural, an installation, mentoring students, or collaborating with a city, I’m inspired by projects that connect people to one another and to the places they share.
What sets my work apart is the research that happens long before I create. I don’t simply add flowers because they’re beautiful, I research native plants, local history, culture, architecture, and symbolism so every project feels authentic and rooted in place.
I love blending the past, the present, and the future into one visual experience. I want people to slow down, discover hidden details, and see familiar places differently.
To me, successful public art isn’t just beautiful it’s meaningful. It should tell stories, spark conversations, preserve history, and inspire the future.

In terms of your work and the industry, what are some of the changes you are expecting to see over the next five to ten years?
I believe the creative industry is moving toward more intentional, experience-driven work. Clients aren’t just looking for someone to paint a mural anymore, they’re looking for a creative partner who can help tell their story, engage their community, and create spaces that people genuinely connect with. While AI is rapidly changing the creative landscape, I actually believe it makes artists more valuable than ever. AI can generate ideas and streamline parts of the design process, but it can’t replace lived experiences, authentic human connection, or the ability to collaborate with a community to create something meaningful. I think the future belongs to artists who embrace technology while continuing to create work that is deeply personal, thoughtful, and rooted in real relationships. Looking ahead, I see Artazandra growing beyond murals into a full creative solutions company, partnering with schools, municipalities, businesses, and government agencies to transform spaces through public art, placemaking, community engagement, decorative finishes, and innovative design. My hope is to help shape an industry where art isn’t viewed as an afterthought, but as an essential investment in stronger communities and more meaningful environments.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexxsortto/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alexxsortto