Age: 21
Year: Junior
Hometown: Roanoke, VA
Major: Crafts/Material Studies and Sculpture
When did you know that you wanted to be an artist?
I had a hard time deciding between music or visual art in high school. I was more attracted to visual art in the end because as an artist, you can be more independent while still incorporating many different ways of working and creating.
What is your ideal future job?
Really anything that can support a studio practice. I have been getting into furniture design recently, mostly last semester. Furniture making seems to me to be both a great way to continue working creatively but still maintaining a practical way to keep myself above water financially.
Why did you choose VCU?
Being the number one public art school definitely had a lot to do with it. I was also drawn to the city of Richmond and its proximity to Roanoke (only a three hour drive) as opposed to five or more to other art schools on the east coast.
What was your favorite thing about AFO?
Meeting new people with similar interests and especially learning more about myself and what I wanted to do in the future.
Who are your biggest influences or role models?
Martin Puryear, Richard Serra, Kent Price, Marc Petrovic, Dr. Dog.
What’s your favorite piece you’ve created?
Sushi Table, mostly because it changed so much design-wise. In the end it was very different from how I planned, in such a good way. Also it recently got into a show at Gallery 5.
*Sushi Table by Alex Bannan
Is any of your work currently on display?
Yes! Sushi Table is in Fall Line Fest Juried Art Show at Gallery 5. The show opens in conjunction with First Fridays at Gallery 5, September 5 at 7 p.m. The show is up until September 25.
What do you do in your free time?
I play guitar and/or banjo nearly everyday. I love going to music shows and gallery openings. I also love hiking, biking and going to the James River.
What advice do you have to freshmen currently in AFO?
Make friends, pay attention to your interests and don’t be afraid to be different in classes or in life.
*Tripetition by Alex Bannan
*Untitled by Alex Bannan
‘Like’ Alex’s artist page on Facebook to keep up with his work and upcoming events.