Alex and I met in 2005, while he was working at the Adidas Original Store in Downtown Chicago. I would’ve never imagined the divine connection that would evolve over time. He was one of the many beautiful and vibrant souls that came into my experience, during the most revolutionary phase of my life. I always say that the universe conspires to align you with people and experiences that are meant to elevate you. It’s almost like this gravitational pull that attracts the most amazing opportunities and people into your experience.
We had the opportunity to explore multi-dimensional ways of living. Dope conversations. Style. Creativity. Laughter. Social hours. New ideas. Hustle. Grind. Movement. Parties. The sound of electrifying, high vibrational music. Organic friendship. All explored with no limitations. Never steering away from the possibilities. Through exploration and imagination. All while growing, evolving, and becoming masters of our experiences. That’s the power and art of communication and connectivity.
Alex’s artistic brilliance and shifts in perspectives, evolved as he experienced life’s shifts and transitions. Evolutionary experiences that shaped his entire human existence. I always say that one’s artistic expression, is the reflection of the Artist’s complex and multi-dimensional mind. Allowing you to journey through the dimensions that transformed their life. That’s what I appreciate about his work. His fearless approach to creative expression, is what sets his work apart from most.
I recently had the opportunity to reconnect with Alex. So many years of separation, yet the connection was like no time had passed. It was such a pleasant conversation. There is such a great appreciation for this Legendary Chicago Artist that is and will always be on the rise!
Take a little dive into Alex’s mind:
RM: What type of artist do you consider yourself to be?
AP: I consider myself to be a mixture of sorts in different styles. In a nutshell, I would consider myself to be a Contemporary/Mix media artist; involving styles from expressionism, surrealism, abstract, and graffiti.
RM: Why art?
AP: Art is and always has been a “let out” of the things that are difficult to express through other platforms. Having the choice to use bright colors and broad to lite brush strokes, that tell a story a viewer can relate to. My body of work is a conglomeration of my past, present, and future perceptions of life's fascinating and enigmatic happenings. At first glance, my work might seem dark in context with an intentional juxtaposition of vibrant colors. I challenge you to venture deeper - beyond the canvas surface - and identify what each piece evokes within you. Much of the satisfaction I gain from sharing my mind's creations, is witnessing how the minds of others translate each piece, according to their own life's occurrences and individual perceptions.
RM: What is your life’s philosophy?
AP: Master the art of just being, Everything that transpires in life, is what is meant to be. I am a part of everything that I’ve met. Everything comes full circle and makes sense with maturity and time. Understanding the moment that one is in and how to capture it. Accept what is.
RM: How has this philosophy evolved over the years?
AP: I’ve learned to let go of the things I cannot control. Self growth has become a constant. Being able to sit and evaluate the experiences that have transpired with maturity and a higher perspective. Having a deeper appreciation for what has manifested and how its transformed my perception.
RM: How has your upbringing and circle of influence, impacted the way you live and think about life today?
AP: It has taught me the concept of analyzing experiences with a higher perspective. Grounding and anchoring myself in the strong foundation that made my family, a family.
RM: Do you believe that your artistry infects our society with positivity?
AP: I would say yes; on a different level. I feel and believe my body of work inspires the viewer and society to share their visions through visual and creative expression.
RM: How do you navigate through your world as an independent artist?
AP: I stay in my mind most of the time. I tend to travel through it with unfiltered judgement. I have trained my eyes to see the world as art. Art is in everything. I know this world has pieces of art for everyone.
RM: How do you stay relevant, unique, and true to your own craft?
AP: I travel with my necessary artist tools, pen, and a sketch book. Ideas come like a creative waterfall. Staying relevant in this time, has become easier with social media. In the sight of staying unique, is kinda unique in itself. I practice practice, practice. I truly believe your growth as an artist evolves your style over time. My work is unique due to my own personal life experiences. Meditating and asking for guidance through my creative gifts. This allows me to explore more of what's outside the lines.
RM: What practices do you implement to stay grounded and divinely connected to your Creator?
AP: Meditation, yoga, and mental exercises. I ground myself before i start my process. Focusing on my breathe…the inhale is the gold chord connected to the sky. The exhale is the energy that is synced to the universal core of this planet. I start every session with a series of deep breathes and doodles. Doodles that warm up the flow in my hand.
RM: What words of wisdom would you give to those seeking a deeper understanding of themselves?
AP: Accept all that is you, the good and bad. Your personal gifts are what make you unique. There is a lesson in every action that you take. It’s okay to let go. The less control you have in your creative journey, the more the creative spirits give and flow.
Stay connected…
Instagram: @Puryear81
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Interview by: Rebecca Muñoz