Meet Aleksandra Stone

We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Aleksandra Stone a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Aleksandra, so excited to have you with us today. So much we can chat about, but one of the questions we are most interested in is how you have managed to keep your creativity alive.

In my art practice, there lies a fundamental, perhaps unconscious, decision that has guided my journey: a profound gentleness with myself. This is not the gentleness of complacency, but rather a self-afforded grace to make mistakes and to explore a vast array of mediums. It is an essential part of my creative process. The only thing I take seriously in my art practice is the seriousness with which I practice it. Each day, regardless of the outcome, I engage in something creative. It might turn out silly or fall short of my expectations, but it is this very act of daily creation that keeps my creativity alive.

In my artistic endeavors, I find myself unburdened by the fear of failure or judgment. My art practice is a sanctuary, a space wholly my own, and I pursue it for myself. The only way I could truly fail is by ceasing to create altogether. I draw immense inspiration from artists like Prince, whose body of work exudes a palpable sense of personal exploration, questioning, and pure enjoyment. Not everything I create will resonate, but I grant myself the liberty to create nonetheless.

An unwritten rule I abide by is to make serious things fun and fun things serious. I find joy in photographing a seemingly frivolous yard of sequin fabric with the gravity of a presidential portrait, and I approach my painting with a childlike playfulness. When painting no longer captivates me, I transform into a character I’ve created, “Judy,” by donning a latex costume and mask. Judy serves as my creative reset button, injecting a fresh burst of energy into my practice.

To anyone, artist or not, my advice is this: be gentle with yourself. Practice diligence and consistency, but with a spirit of kindness. In this balance, creativity flourishes.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

My name is Aleksandra Stone, I am a Yugoslavian-born American photographer, painter, and multimedia artist based in Dallas, Texas. My art practice investigates the influence of time on the construction of narrative identity. Specifically, I explore how the passage of time shapes the perception of lived experiences, diminishing or reinforcing plot points that become the framework for the stories we tell about ourselves.

I am an artist who finds joy in the journey of creation, often immersing myself in multiple projects at once. Currently, my primary focus is on completing a significant painting series that has been several years in the making. This series, which has grown alongside me, represents countless hours of work, exploration, and learning. As I approach its completion, I feel both happy and a little sad. It is a labor of love that I am proud to bring to fruition.

Currently, I have a solo show at Garner Narrative Contemporary in Louisville, KY. This exhibition features a body of work I created during my first year living in Dallas, TX. The move from the frenetic energy of New York City to the expansive landscapes and welcoming community of Dallas has been a significant change. This transition has allowed me to explore new themes, infusing my work with a fresh perspective. This spirit of exploration and joy is something I am eager to share with my audience.

Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?

Reflecting on my artistic journey, three qualities have been particularly impactful: resilience, curiosity, and building relationships within the art community.

Firstly, resilience has been crucial. Artistic endeavors inevitably come with challenges and setbacks. Developing resilience has allowed me to persevere through difficulties, learn from failures, and continue evolving as an artist. It’s about embracing setbacks as part of the growth process and staying committed to my vision.

Curiosity has also played a significant role. My innate curiosity drives me to explore new mediums, themes, and techniques. It’s through this exploration that I discover new perspectives and push the boundaries of my creativity. For those early in their journey, I encourage nurturing curiosity—stay open to new ideas, seek inspiration from diverse sources, and never stop learning.

Building relationships within the art community has been transformative. Artists supporting other artists creates a network of encouragement and collaboration. Championing both oneself and others fosters a community where creativity thrives. Early in your journey, I advise aspiring artists to actively engage with the art community, attend exhibitions, participate in workshops, and connect with fellow artists and mentors. These relationships can provide valuable support, feedback, and opportunities for growth.

For those starting out, my advice is to cultivate resilience in the face of challenges, foster curiosity to fuel exploration and growth, and prioritize building meaningful relationships within the art community. Trust in your journey, stay dedicated to honing your craft, and remember that every connection you make contributes to your artistic journey.

Who is your ideal client or what sort of characteristics would make someone an ideal client for you?

My ideal client is anyone who wants to incorporate art into their home or make art a part of their life. Whether you’re looking to complement your decor, admire a specific color, or form a deep emotional connection with a work based on its meaning, I value and respect all motivations for acquiring art. Each reason is valid and personal. Ultimately, what matters most to me is that you have a desire to welcome art into your life.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.aleksandrastone.com
• Instagram: stone_aleksandra

Image Credits

Aleksandra Stone