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

Hi Alexander , have there been any changes in how you think about work-life balance?
Work life balance is not always easy but I try my best to balance my time accordingly. I work on this aspect of my life daily. Over time different life events have changed how I handle managing both aspects, work and life. For example, I recently welcomed my first born. The baby is priority and I spend time with him and try to balance spending time with my family and also having enough time to paint. I have a schedule that helps me visualize much time I have to complete a project. Having a schedule also helps me manage my family time.I think balance looks different for everyone. Also, life events may play a role as to how that balance looks at that specific time in your life.

 

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Although I currently focus on oil painting I love to use all mediums. That is something I think sets me apart from others. I have used aerosol to create murals, airbrush to create one of kind items, oil pastels, watercolor, charcoal and acrylic among others. I am most proud of my work around my community. As a muralist ,early on in my career, I was able to work with several schools in the LAUSD district and many surrounding schools now display murals created by me. i am excited for the future and all the opportunities it holds and showing my son the artwork I create. As an artist the road to build this as a career is not as black and white as other careers. Many times I had to learn different things on my own. The road to where I am now has not been easy. Several times I had to make sacrifices but staying focused and having support is what helped me along the way. I’ve learned along the way that patience is key. I have spent many years mastering my craft in hopes that my art brings joy to the viewer.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Los Angeles, California has many interesting places to visit. The city is home to several amazing art museums such as the Getty Museum, Getty Villa, LACMA, MOMA, Huntington Library and The Broad among many others.Also, the city has many restaurants with beautiful views. One of the best restaurants is Mastro’s in Malibu, it has an amazing coastline view. Another excellent restaurant and view is 71 Above with a beautiful view of all of Los Angeles. Finally, I would take the person to some of the best parks the city has and of course to the Hollywood part of town.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to thank my lovely wife and newborn son!

Website: alexanderchistov.com
Instagram: @chistov_alexander

Image Credits
Maria Chistov