Check Out Alexandra Wheeler’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Alexandra Wheeler.  

Hi Alexandra, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
After graduating college with a degree in business, I feel unsure of what I wanted to do with my career. I did know that I had a love for art that I hadn’t explored yet. I decided to apply to grad school for painting. I had always dreamed of studying abroad, so I looked for a program in Europe that would fit for me. I got into an American college located in Aix-en-Provence, France. My journey and love for painting really started there. I was able to let go of everything I thought I was supposed to do and focus solely on painting. 

I completed my MFA in May of 2020, during the start of the COVID-19 outbreak. My time in France, unfortunately, came to a quick end, but it lead me to my life as an artist in Michigan! I am so thankful for the connections that I have made in the Port Huron area where my sister and her family live. 

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It has been a constant learning experience figuring out how and where to sell my work. I have enjoyed selling in local boutiques, art markets, art fairs, and galleries. Though, I have had the most success selling online and through referrals. 

Comparison is the thief of joy, so while I love finding inspiration through the work of other artists, I have struggled to feel that my work is good enough. I have to remind myself why I paint and make sure I am enjoying what I am doing no matter what. 

My goal is to release a new collection of work each year on my website, with the next release dropping in the next couple of months! 

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar, what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a painter inspired by impressionism and abstract expressionism. I try not to pigeonhole myself into one particular style, but my loose brushstrokes seem to carry into each painting that I create. I work in multiple mediums, including watercolor, oil paint, acrylic paint, charcoal, and graphite. 

I am known for my nautical-themed painting of sailboats in sunset settings and custom watercolor commissions. I have also released a collection of hand-painted ornaments during the holiday season for the past two years. 

Have you learned any interesting or important lessons due to the Covid-19 Crisis?
Due to the Covid-19 crisis, I have learned about the importance of staying in touch with family and friends. Sometimes, it’s easy to take advantage of having family close to you but being forced apart really made me appreciate the times spent together. I also learned how important it is to find what makes you happy and continue to make time to do things that nurture your mental health. 

Contact Info:

• Website: www.alexwheelerart.com
• Instagram: @awheelerart
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/awheeler.art96/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-wheeler-b50181ba/