Painting to the beat of a different drummer
Written by Jenna Metcalf, Former Student on Friday, January 25, 2013
Color splatters the ground while the scent of paint wafts through the air. Various designs cover the floor as a girl in paint covered clothing works tirelessly on her creation that covers the vast majority of the ground. Most people use their garage for storage or for tools, but not Alexis Marcouiller. When a mural or big project is underway, the area transforms into an area of creation.
Though Marcouiller enjoys many activities, from music to roller derby, it is art that holds a significant place in her life.
Marcouiller originally got involved in the art when her brother was in the hospital. She used to draw sketches and led craft classes to cheer up her brother and other patients. Each sketch was unique, filled with a little of the message Marcouiller wanted to portray.
Her interest blossomed further as art became her passion and outlet for coping and expression.
“I use art as a way to get through whatever is going on in my life at the moment,” said Marcouiller.
Her inspiration comes from many places, including her life experiences, her mom, and other artists. Sylvia Ji, an artist from California, has encouraged her interest in Day of the Dead paintings and many local artists from Seattle offer motivation.
Marcouiller focuses on depicting the unusual and the obscure using mainly acrylic paint. Though most of her creations are straight out of her head, she also knows the importance of figure study.
“My personal style isn’t something you would necessarily find in an art class. I’ve just come up with it on my own: it’s kind of an oddity.”
Her art teacher, Yasmeen Evjenth, agrees.
“She has a strong assurance,” says Evjenth. “Lexi knows exactly what her message is, which is unusual in a young artist.”
According to Evjenth, Marcouiller has progressed most in working with other mediums. Although Marcouiller does primarily flatwork, she is currently working on a three-dimensional project.
“She hasn’t worked in this style or with material before,” Evjenth commented. “It looks very promising and I am excited to see the finished product.”
However, school projects are just a fraction of the work Marcouiller has in her repertoire. She has participated in four gallery openings and held one art show herself. She also has created posters, designed tattoos, taught art classes and has sold some of her work in the store that she and her mother run.
In the future, Marcouiller doesn’t want art to slip out of her life. It is her favorite method of expressing herself, and she wants to continue to use art as a healing mechanism and a method for her voice to be heard. She also wants to continue her involvement with the art community.
“I don’t really have a job in mind, but I definitely want to stay involved. I guess I will just see what opportunities I can take advantage of.”
