Meet Alex Andersen | Graphic Designer, Social Impact & Connection

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

Hi Alex, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
I’ve always felt like I didn’t fit in with the “corporate” world and felt really disillusioned by it. I always wondered how everyone could just be content with that lifestyle; depending on the job, it felt really shallow at times (though there were some exceptions). I wanted to challenge myself to see if starting my own business or at least freelancing in some capacity was something I’d be capable of doing, if I could carve my own path and find the kind of work that made me feel like I was actually contributing to the world. I wanted to teach other designers and share my knowledge, help small business owners achieve their dreams, and prove to myself that I’m capable of achieving something if I can set my mind to it.

I do see my business/freelancing as what serves me now, though I’m always open to adapting and seeing which doors open up. It can be really empowering to work for yourself but also very draining, and you don’t get a lot of work-life boundaries. I think it will evolve with time, and I never see any path as permanent!

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Making art has always been an outlet for me. It’s always soothed me and helped me deal with mental health issues, helped me navigate and process the world around me, and connected me with like-minded people. I think what sets my art apart from others is that I’m self-taught, so I didn’t have a traditional design education. I think that’s reflected in my art as passion; everything I make fills my cup in some way or relates to something that I care about. I have always been really motivated to learn new things on my own and carve my own path. And as I continue to grow personally, my art and design embodies my values more clearly and I’m excited to see how my art evolves with me.

I’ve learned to see design as a tool, not just for self-expression but for social impact and connection. I’m always looking for new ways to use design to create a better world now and for future generations. I am so grateful to have the privilege that I do, and it’s important to me that I use to promote equity and change, demystify the design world, make it more accessible, decolonize my understanding of design, and teach others.

It hasn’t been a straightforward, cookie-cutter path to get to where I am now, but I wouldn’t have it any other way. I would encourage other people to believe in themselves and envision a path for themselves that makes them feel inspired and connection, even if it’s not something other people would consider socially acceptable or reasonable. I’ve learned that no one will have the answer for you and that you need to figure it out yourself, especially if you’re not interested in a traditional career path.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Atlanta has sooooo much to offer. Depending on the vibes of the person visiting, I would definitely make sure to show them the classics like Clermont, MJQ, Piedmont Park, the High Museum, maybe walk around L5P, Midtown, Cabbagetown, and EAV, and maybe even do a little hike on the Chattahoochee. As far as food/bev goes, my favorites at the moment are probably 26 Thai for dinner and Chrome Yellow for tea/coffee. I would probably also take them to a United game via Marta or find an arts festival or one of the events going on at the skate park or Piedmont Park. Definitely during a festival weekend would be ideal and great people watching.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’ve always had the privilege of being surrounded by incredibly supportive friends and family, as well as mentors in the design space. Thank you to my lovely parents, my creative circle (especially India Nabarro for her guidance and mentorship and cool Auntie vibes), and my many mentors along the way! So many creative people have had my back and been so generous with their knowledge and advice.

Website: https://www.alexandersendesign.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alextheandersen/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexlandersen/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@alextheandersen