We had the good fortune of connecting with Alexsey Reyes and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Alexsey, why did you pursue a creative career?
I was never truly passionate about the things taught in a traditional school setting. From a young age, I found myself turning to art at any given opportunity. I knew I was meant to create and as I got older I realized the potential this could be to a long term career. Art makes the world go round. Everything around us is designed, photogrpahed, or directed by a creative. This means that the hands of what representation looks like for the younger generation is in our hands. It’s an extremely important responsibility to me, and being able to push culture forward is such a rewarding career.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Art to me is a form of communication and expression. I’m super excited for what the future holds in terms of representation. Growing up Plus size, and Latino there was a huge lack of representation that played a role in how I treated and viewed others. I firsthand understand the importance of creating it and the message of inclusivity. I’ve learned that not everyone takes these aspect into mind when creating so I’m excited to continue the movement to where it becomes the norm.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I love a day at the rose garden in exposition park. A picnick moment sounds so fun right now!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Yes! Someone I look up to is my friend Christen Nino De Guzman! Christen was one of the first people to believe in my art and creativity from early in my career and continuously inspires me to continue to do what I love! Having people like her that reassure and push you to be better is so valuable and I truly wouldn’t be where I am without her! Christen has recently launched her own app and platform to help content creators everywhere understand the creator economy a bit better via transparency and community.

Website: Alxesey.com

Instagram: Alexseyreyes

Youtube: https://youtube.com/channel/UC_8Bft29dDIilArKAtwGmXw

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.