There’s a poetic quality to Alexandra Bowman’s illustrations. An illustrator, designer, and muralist, her work uses scale as a metaphor, highlighting the hidden corners of our world, with common themes including race, culture, gender, and inclusivity. As such, her illustrations provide a bridge between artist and viewer, encouraging an open dialogue about the importance of representation and being seen in a world where some feel invisible.
Since graduating with a BFA from The School of the Art Institute of Chicago, Bowman has worked both on commercial and personal projects, collaborating with brands like The New York Times, Pop Up Magazine, and Food 52. “Most of my commissioned work is drawn digitally due to potential revisions and fast turnarounds,” she shared with Catapult, “but I love experimenting with new materials.”
Indeed, experimentation is key to her practice. “I try and fit in personal projects whenever I have time,” she notes, “so I can constantly keep growing and improving as an artist. When I work with clients, it’s important for me to be a collaborator, staying open-minded and flexible, while bringing my own interests and style to the table.”
Her work is mostly a reflection of her own environment, as well as her mental health. “My work is only as exciting as my life experiences,” says Bowman. “If I don’t take care of myself, my work will suffer.”
Here are some of our favorite creations by her.
