Alexa Karabin
My work is an exploration of nature, history, and the unique materials I encounter. As an artist, I engage in a multifaceted creative practice that includes watercolor painting, handmade paper, custom paint formulation, and a variety of other artistic processes. I earned my MFA from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago in 2011, and since then, I have been committed to both my artistic practice and education, sharing my passion in Kalamazoo, Michigan. My studio, situated on a 10-acre former Christmas tree farm, serves as both sanctuary and source of inspiration. The surrounding landscape provides a wealth of materials and ideas, deeply influencing my work. I employ a range of distinctive materials in my art, such as watercolors derived from my grandmother’s jewelry, 24k gold leaf, glass, and other found objects. These elements are integral to my creative process, creating a dialogue between the past and present, the personal and universal. Each piece I produce is a reflection of this intersection, offering viewers an opportunity to uncover beauty in the unexpected. I invite you to explore my work and engage with the layered narratives and aesthetic richness embedded in each piece.
alexa@alexakarabin.com
@alexakarabin
What inspires your art practice and keeps you motivated?
My art practice is inspired by immersion in nature and a disciplined approach. The natural world fuels my creativity and provides essential materials. I stay motivated by treating my art practice as a profession, setting deadlines, and participating in art fairs and exhibitions. This structured approach ensures consistent productivity and growth.
How does your mission as an artist influence the work you create?
My mission as an artist drives me to continually refine my skills and enhance my creative expression. I am committed to constant improvement and pushing the boundaries of my work, striving to better articulate my ideas with each piece.
Can you share a key part of your creative process that helps you stay focused?
A key part of my creative process is my unwavering commitment to showing up in the studio every day. Even during slow or challenging periods, I dedicate at least 8 hours to my work. This consistent effort ensures that progress is made and helps me stay focused, ultimately leading to the completion and refinement of my projects.
What mindset tip do you rely on to overcome challenges in your art career?
To overcome challenges in my art career, I rely on the mindset of perseverance: consistently showing up to the studio. I believe that if you don’t engage with your work regularly, nothing will progress. By maintaining this dedication, you eventually work through obstacles and grow. Art inherently involves ups and downs, and embracing failure as part of the journey is crucial. The key is to never give up.
How do you hope your art impacts the world or your community?
I hope my art inspires people to engage with and reflect on our natural world. My work is intended to encourage contemplation of the earth and its inhabitants, fostering a deeper understanding of our place within the natural environment. Through my art, I aim to spark a sense of connection and awareness that resonates within the community and beyond.
