We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Alex Pham a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Alex, thank you so much for joining us. You are such a positive person and it’s something we really admire and so we wanted to start by asking you where you think your optimism comes from?
I learnt to keep faith and optimism with various members of my family and friends. Year after year, it might be something that I cultivated and learnt to grow by myself.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
MAPPLIGHTS is a Montreal-based studio specializing in projection mapping, murals, and experiential creation. We collaborate internationally with artists and organizations to transform urban spaces into vibrant, immersive experiences that connect art, technology, and community.
Our work spans street art festivals, urban art installations, and cultural events. As passionate muralists and creators, we aim to democratize urban art through workshops, cultural activities, and large-scale projections. We’re deeply committed to supporting artists and fostering creativity through our nonprofit initiatives, strengthening social connections through artistic expression.
Right now, we’re excited about expanding our mapping street art and urban arts events and workshops and launching new international collaborations.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Reflecting on my journey at MAPPLIGHTS, three elements have been pivotal for me:
An artistic vision: our creativity enables us to transform urban spaces into captivating visual experiences. So, immerse yourself in diverse art forms and continually experiment to broaden your creative horizons.
A technical expertise: proficiency in projection mapping tools and techniques ensures our concepts are effectively realized. Then, invest time in learning relevant software and stay updated with technological advancements. Participating in specialized workshops offered at the Society for Arts and Technology (SAT) in Montreal.
A community engagement: collaborating with local communities and artists enriches our projects and amplifies our impact. Build relationships within your community and seek collaborative opportunities to create meaningful art.
For those starting out, focusing on these areas can lead to a fulfilling path in urban and experiential visual art.
Alright so to wrap up, who deserves credit for helping you overcome challenges or build some of the essential skills you’ve needed?
For the past 20 years, my partner, Cédric Montana, has been the most instrumental in helping me overcome challenges and develop the essential skills needed for success. Together, we’ve built a dynamic creative partnership, constantly balancing each other’s ideas and perspectives. From the very beginning, we’ve taken measured risks together, learning to trust our instincts and push our artistic vision forward.
One of the most valuable skills we’ve developed is communication—something that has been tested and strengthened over time, especially during the high-pressure summer season when we’re managing multiple events. Even during moments of exhaustion and stress, we’ve learned how to navigate challenges as a team, supporting each other and staying focused on our shared goals. This partnership has been the foundation of our creative journey, shaping both our personal and professional growth.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mapplights/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/studiomapplights
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mapplights/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@MAPPLIGHTS
Image Credits
Catherene Lee https://www.instagram.com/therene_therene/
Alex & Cedy MAPPLIGHTS https://www.instagram.com/mapplights/
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
