An artist profile of Alex McLeod
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Describe your process of creating a new piece. What materials do you normally work in?
Most of the process is completed on the computer, but the new work usually starts as a thumbnail sketch and some side notes. Often I use the last file I was working on to start the next, so that my lighting setup and materials are consistent. I make, reuse and modify models then place, texture and render. Once I am done it’s published online and if I’m lucky I get to print it.
What projects are you working on? What do you have coming up in terms of shows?
I have a show up at Switch Contemporary until July 5th, in addition to that I’ll be part of “Peep show” at Lonsdale (opening August 13th). They are celebrating their 15th anniversary at the end of the year that I may get to be a part of. A couple publications that I have been lucky enough to work with are slotted for release later this year too.
When are you most productive?
I get most work done in the early morning, then I fade and start to google my name and check web analytics.
When did creating art become something important in your life?
I traced my friend Adam’s drawing of Spiderman in grade six, but I gave him the symbiote suit instead of the red and blue one. No one even cared that I copied and got away with it, which totally made it art.
What are your thoughts on the Toronto art scene compared to everywhere else you’ve experienced?
It’s great, but really insular (regarding showing Torontonians). I can’t even think of how many fantastic contemporary artists we only get to see either by leaving the country or going online. Until they’re important enough to bring to a major institution their ads in Artforum will have to suffice.
What are some of your favourite spots in the city?
I like to go to the St. Lawrence Market with my folks (it’s only civilized in the mornings). East Chinatown, WQW and Riverside (my hood) are all great.
What’s your current obsession? Artists, films, blogs?
Yes, I am guiltily obsessed with blogs, or rather trying to get on them. I really admire Chiho Aoshima (I think she uses illustrator). There are far too many other talents to list. Forbidden Planet is one of my favorite films because it reminds me of a video game called Rama by Arthur C. Clarke. It’s a really nerdy game, way nerdier than Myst.
What is your favorite cheap eats? You know, survival food for the starving artist?
Bánh mì and butter tarts. But never together. Home cooking is the cheapest and tastiest though 😀
Any last words?
Thank you so much! Google me! Joking. www.alxclub.com.
