Illustrator Alex on Art, Identity, and Finding Confidence

In this edition of 6Qs with Christine, Alex shares what keeps their creative fire lit, how confidence and validation shape a creative life, and why doing what you love—really, truly love—is always worth it.

1. What was the spark that drew you into illustration, and how has your passion evolved?

Since a very young age I always was attracted and found peace and happiness into drawing; illustration and art in general. In school I studied design and my favourite assignments were always patterning, colouring, storyboarding and all the creative opportunities that I got to invent characters and stories. Later, in University, I truly found out what illustration is, that there are people that are doing that as a job and that blew my mind, it sparked my fire indeed.

In the pandemic I found myself with a little more time on my hands and also tried to comfort myself with an activity I love. I started illustrating more and also posting it online; started applying to open calls and one of them led me to AnnaGoodson Illustration Agency. The fact that the opportunity was there did not make sense to me, I could not believe it and I ignored it for a while. Then, scared, I decided to give it a shot and ever since I keep evolving, and loving every second. The passion and dream I always had is now my daily activity.

2. Can you share a project or piece that you hold close to your heart? What’s the story behind its importance for you?

A project that I will never forget, and always will be in my heart, is my first ever project I did with a client represented by an agency. Here, in Romania, illustration is not quite seen as a serious job and I was always perceived by the clients as a side thing and not that important. When I worked with the Government of Quebec as a first official project I was really impressed by the professionalism and also the trust I felt that the client had in me to represent his project visually.

The most important thing that I learned from that project is that my work was really important for someone and it also validated my hard work. It helped me be more ambitious and perfect my work.

3. How do you navigate creative blocks or periods of low inspiration?

When I feel like I have a creative block or I don’t feel 100% sure of a project, it helps me a lot to experience other forms of art or travel. I watch movies or documentaries, I do pottery, I experiment with fashion and patterns. It helps to detach from the project for a while so when I come back to it I can see it with other, fresh eyes.

4. What have you done lately that scared you?

The thing that I found out recently that scares me is the fear of losing. The fear of losing an opportunity, the fear of losing someone. I was at a moment in my life when I chose work over visiting my hometown and relatives and it scared me that I had to choose one or another. 

5. What is the best advice you’ve been given?

The best advice I received is to only do what I love and feel proud about. And always choose my passion over others. It will always feel more rewarding to do what you love rather than something you are obligated to do..

6. And finally, what’s something you are looking forward to?

I’m looking forward to my growth, to projects to come. I’m always looking forward to the future and working on evolving towards it.

Anything else you'd like to share?

One thing I’d like to share is that confidence is really important—and validation from others helps a lot, especially in the creative industry. Support fellow artists and offer constructive, helpful feedback.

Connect with Alex on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-antonescu-9172b3222/

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Know someone with a creative spark?

I’m always looking for inspiring people to feature in 6Qs with Christine. If you know a creative thinker, maker, or storyteller whose journey deserves a spotlight—send me a note! I’d love to hear from you.