Today we’d like to introduce you to Alexandra Martin.
Hi Alexandra; so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work life, how can you bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I’m French by birth. I grew up and studied in Paris. Ever since I was a little girl, I’ve loved creating, drawing, imagining, making things possible, and realizing my ideas. After completing a communications and marketing baccalaureate, I went to a graphic design school (LISAA Paris). I did 1 year of preparatory classes, two years of bachelor’s studies in graphic design, and finally, 2 years of master’s studies in digital art direction. I did a 6-month internship in Barcelona, Spain to validate these years. It was the first time I’d left the family cocoon, and at the same time, it was my first flight as an adult. I worked in a small communications agency, creating showcase websites for the agency’s clients. It was gratifying. After the 6-month internship, I completed my master’s degree in Paris and moved back to Barcelona for a year and a half, where I landed my first CDI as a graphic designer in an agency whose client was ALDI. I was responsible for designing point-of-sale displays, catalogs, and other communication media for this major food brand. I was still learning or discovering Spanish culture. I came back to France and landed a permanent contract as head of the graphics department of a Yearbook graphic design agency for 3 years. I managed a small team of 5 people. This allowed me to move forward and learn about management. During those 3 years, I met the person I live with and who has supported me. She kept me going and supported my desire to launch my own freelance business, which I did. I’ve had various science-related contracts and a big one with a French publishing agency. Why did I end up in the United States? After supporting me and finishing her doctorate in neuroscience, I married my partner, who managed to get a contract for a post-doctorate in Saint Louis (MO). So we both took off on a new adventure! I still do freelance graphic design, and I’m also an illustrator.
Would it have been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It has been challenging. Most of the time, I had to face some doubts. Was I really in my place? Or the famous impostor syndrome that showed up when I wasn’t at the top of my self-confidence. Today, through podcasts, interviews, etc., we highlight the lives of certain people who have had to face the same questions, or others for that matter, but it helps us realize that we are not alone and that there is always a solution. The solution is to believe in holding our heads up despite everything. There will always be better than us! But it does not matter because we can learn from the best; one day, it will be up to us to be at the same level. I have no more doubts, but I remain positive, and I keep in mind that what gives me the mojo is to know that the people who look at my work can be continuously happy and pleasantly satisfied.
Let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
When I talk about my work, I first say that being a graphic designer means putting stars in the eyes of consumers or spectators. It’s about sublimating ideas, making them real, designing, drawing, integrating, printing, and animating concepts. What I love most is paper, the fact of transposing one’s work, one’s ideas that have been realized, onto a medium destined to be printed. I love the smell of paper and ink. The rendering of colors depends on the paper chosen. The “wow” effect depends on the format chosen. I’m a fan of publishing and communicating through posters, flyers, stickers, etc. I draw and like to combine my illustrations with editing software. I am making a mix between typography and illustrations. I also have a digital eye. I like to animate and motion design, where animating images and typography inspires me a lot. I aspire to animate some of my illustrations 🙂 I’m known for being resourceful. Some of my customers have told me that it’s a real pleasure to work with me because I pass on my smile to everyone. That it’s easy to understand each other, and I can imagine and design their ideas rigorously. What am I most proud of? Being who I am now. To have traveled and still be traveling! I’m proud of where I’ve been and where I’m going. What sets me apart from the rest? I enjoy every exchange in my work. I like to exchange, learn, develop, and grow in what I do. My joy of being and the joy I can pass on. It keeps the mojo going!
Before we go, is there anything else you can share with us?
I don’t have much to add except that whatever your profession if you have an idea or a desire, go for it! Try to overcome your fears! Surround yourself with good people who will help you stay who you are and grow!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.alexandramartinsite.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/aupascouleur
- Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/alexandramartingraphiste
