Today we’d like to introduce you to Alexandria X.
Hi Alexandria, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I got my start back in 2018, working on small independent short films here in Atlanta. I knew that I wanted to be an art director on films so my first step was to get on set and learn as much as I could. I was a production assistant for about two years and filled a few other roles along the way, just trying to gain as much knowledge and experience as possible. From those smaller sets, I made connections and met people who brought me on to larger budget projects and I managed to work my way into the role I always wanted, art director.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It has not always been easy and it still isn’t. My first two years working as a PA, I volunteered my time and energy to various productions. I would often work over 12-hour days with no pay just because I wanted to gain the experience. As I’ve progressed in my career, I have had to endure being short-changed and people not understanding the value of my work. I am often approached with projects that do not provide me with an adequate budget or even enough time to successfully do my job. However, I love what I do and honestly could not imagine being in any other industry but film.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
The best way to describe myself is as a multidisciplinary artist. I specialize primarily in art/creative direction, production design, and photography. I like to say that I create worlds, not matter how big or small. My process starts with a concept created by myself or a client, and it is my job to bring this idea (whether it be a pop-up installation or a college campus for a TV Show ) to life through designing, building, and decorating. Throughout the years, I’ve had the opportunity to design and create sets for music videos, photoshoots, tv, and film.
Even though I have been able to create some fun sets for clients, I would have to say I am most proud of the work I’ve done for my own original concepts. As working creatives, I think it’s easy to get caught up in bringing to life ideas for others, but there’s no better feeling than seeing your own original ideas become tangible. All in all though, It is my love for the craft, that makes the work worthwhile. Whether it be my own concepts or someone else’s, I treat every set that I work on as if it was my brainchild and I would say that is what sets me apart from others.
Have you learned any interesting or important lessons due to the Covid-19 Crisis?
Covid-19 taught me more than anything that our time is precious. We never know what might be around the corner, so make the most of your life today. We do not live to work, we work to live. So go on that trip, make that visit to see family, and write that script you’ve had in your head for the past four years. Do the things that make you feel full and happy because at the end of the day, you only have those memories to look back on.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://alexandriaxportfolio.wixsite.com/portfolio
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xouttheuniverse/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSTuEXnlXI_d-1y7rWhE9CA
Image Credits
Photographer: Alexandria X
