I met Alexandra Chiou via Instagram in 2019 when we started messaging about the in's and out's of framing methods. Since that time, I have discovered Alexandra to be one of the most talented and generous artists that I know.
Her intricate hand cut paper works feel both earthy and ethereal, delicate and emotionally resonant, qualities not often seamlessly combined. The swirling movement within each work calls to mind breezes, streams, and other sources of gentle flow in the natural world.
Alexandra's work ethic is always inspiring, and I am so pleased that she agreed to answer questions for Art Habit, so we can spotlight her beautiful cut paper work, and also to share about her solo exhibition, on view now through March 31st at IA & A at Hillyer in Washington, D.C.
-Nikki/Art Habit
Art Habit: How long have you been making your cut paper pieces? What led you to make this type of work? (Did you draw/paint before?)
Alexandra Chiou: I've been working with this current method since around 2015, so it's been about 9 years now. I started as an oil painter, but after graduating from college, I was working out of my apartment and had limited storage space, so I started painting with acrylic on paper instead. Eventually, I began experimenting with collage. I have always been interested in sculpture, and started playing with the layers of paper in my pieces. We have so many complex emotions and feelings, and I love how the layers are a way of representing the depth of what we feel and experience.
AH: How do you think about “beauty” as related to the work you make?
AC: In my latest work, I think about beauty in the sense that I celebrate moments and memories of hope, joy, wonder, and love. That being said, you cannot have light without darkness, and often the most traumatic and challenging experiences shape us and make us who we are. It's important to accept all the good and the bad and to come to terms with the entirety of our experiences. My work is about finding healing, feeling uplifted, and being at peace.
AH: You have lived in some interesting places over the last few years. What have been your favorite things about each city you have lived in?
AC: I've been fortunate enough to live in the DMV, LA, and currently the Boston area. Every place I've lived in, I've met very generous and welcoming people in the creativity community, which is something I have really appreciated and cherished. Living elsewhere has made me even more appreciative of the number of amazing nonprofit art spaces in the DC area and the fact there are so many free world-class museums nearby. If you live in the DMV, definitely don't take that for granted!
AH: Do you have a morning routine (if yes, please describe it)? What other routines have you established that help you make your work?
AC: I usually stretch and do some sort of exercise. Being physically active helps boost my energy and overall mood, and it makes me more productive. I also generally work on my art in the mornings. Even if I only have time to do 15-30 minutes worth of work (which happens on some days), I do a little every day and it really adds up in the long-run.
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AH: You do a great job connecting with galleries. What advice would you give artists that want to work with more galleries?
AC: I'm still navigating this myself, but I recommend doing your research and being very deliberate about galleries you want to potentially connect with. Make sure they are a good fit. Do you like the work they show? Does their mission resonate with you? Could you see your work fitting with their current roster of artists? Once you've identified galleries you're interested in, visit in person and attend their events. They will appreciate the support and it will not go unnoticed. Try to get to know them better as people, not just as a gallery.
AH: Where can readers learn more about your work? Do you have exhibitions or upcoming events you’d like to share?
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