Meet Alexandra Dillon | Artist

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

Hi Alexandra, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
I think there are two aspects to my success as an artist. The first, is that I let myself make the art I truly wanted to make, not something that I thought would sell in the marketplace. My work is different than what I see at art fairs and galleries. I used to think that might be a hindrance to my success, but in fact, its been just the opposite. People appreciate the originality and authenticity of my paintings. The second road to my success, was getting my work out there on social media, sending out press releases, and having a strong website and functioning online shop. When my brush portraits went viral on the web, I was ready! While I still work with galleries sometimes, I believe that artists have the ability to form their own careers.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I paint imaginary portraits on found objects such as paintbrushes, dresses, locks and axes. Each found object has its own significance and it adds a layer of meaning to the artwork. I love portraiture from all eras and I play with styles from Roman-Egyptian mummy paintings, to Baroque realism. I am a classically trained artist, but it took me a long time to find something interesting to do with those skills. Like most artist, I went down many roads before I found my true voice. My greatest success is that I found myself as an artist. But commercial success is also very rewarding. It can take a long time to build a clientele, and persistence pays off. My advice is “Stay the course!”

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I’m a local Westside girl, and I love the natural parts of the city. Hiking in Solstice Canyon in Malibu is a favorite, also El Matador or Leo Carrillo Beaches. Malibu Seafood is great for an outdoor lunch. If you want to experience a little bit of Japan on the Westside, check out the Sawtelle neighborhood. I like Hide Sushi. Stop in at Giant Robot Store and GR2 Gallery for some great anime art and gifts. I still love El Coyote Cafe on Beverly. The ambiance is 1940’s Mexican kitsch at its finest. Whatever you think of the food, those margaritas make up for everything!

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?
My friend Gordon, and my friend Bob have been there for me, through all my ups and downs. I feel lucky to have such great people in my life.

Website: https://www.alexandradillon.com
Instagram: @alexandradillonartist
Facebook: @alexandradillonart

Image Credits
Alexandra Dillon