Playful hard edge art by Alex Giles
How did you come into contact with art, Alex?
After graduating in Fine Art in 2006, I started working as a scenic artist and carpenter in the independent film industry. My career took a turn when i moved to Manchester and began art directing TV commercials with the occasional stint in London to work on a number of cult television comedies.
Do you have more time for your art today than before?
The life of a creative freelancer leaves little time or space to create for oneself, despite the desire to do so always being present. During lockdown I was finally able to dust off the brushes and start making work again. Properly.
What defines your individual style?
I combine fruity playful colours with sharp illustrative lines, creating as much movement as possible, journeys and portals are themes that run through my paintings.
What are your professional goals?
I’m hoping for a show in the near future, I’ve resisted selling any of my larger works as I’m stockpiling them to exhibit them together. This would give me the drive to push things even further, and move into a more balanced life of freelance art direction and painting.
What is good art in your opinion?
I like art that entertains and amuses, I dont think my tutors really liked my approach with this during my degree. I was perhaps a lot less refined then, I certainly didn’t use the level of process I do now.
Alex Giles ★ Artist resume
I like the idea that you can be lifted out of your immediate surroundings by staring into a work of art. My paintings are created to take you on a short clear journey, to confuse, or to pull you into another dimension. I’m relieved to be working properly again after a 16 year hiatus, where I have used my creativity to realise other peoples dreams, by art directing their films. But I’m here now, working with a focus and a drive that is pushing through the catalogue of ideas that I have backed up over the years.
Thank you very much, Alex.
Instagram: @agklart
