Alexandria Canchola’s Illustrations Have a Story to Tell

Illustrator Alexandria Canchola hopes to blur the distinctions between our perceptions of reality and our creations within it. Inspired by, and very much leaning on, the different narratives that form both our personal and impersonal lives, her illustrations help to make sense of the everyday, of the societal patterns we see, and of the relationships we experience.

“There’s something about each one of us that lends ourselves to a story,” remarked the Texas-based illustrator in an interview with Ballpitmag. An admirer of stories, but also of color and type, her creative choices are informed by the way narrative connects with emotion through human experiences.

“The color palettes used to subvert the viewer’s idea of emotion; centering on themes such as loneliness, solitude, and voyeurism and showcasing these emotions in the bright powerful hues in which we feel them,” she further explains. “The aesthetic choices found in the illustration work: flat areas of color, simplification of forms and figures, a bold and vibrant color palette, and a playfulness with perspective.”

With a small following on Instagram, Canchola has also attracted publications, small businesses, and non-profits. With her work varying from illustration to creative direction and design, her goal is to solve problems creatively. Through her work (whether personal or commercial), she hopes to empower others and make a difference.