A wide shot of a ceramics studio, featuring students working with pottery wheels and other tools.
Selfie of Alex Perkins, an adult person with a fair skin tone, short dark hair, and glasses, smiling.

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Alex Perkins

Continuing Studies Instructor

Contact

Bio

Alex P. (they/them) is a nonbinary and biracial illustrator, educator, muralist, and collector of novelty earrings located in Chicago.

Growing up throughout the plains of Wisconsin, Alex's work is inspired by an appreciation for the mundane and cozy; and a desire to always have a blanket wrapped around your shoulders. They graduated with a BFA in Illustration at the Minneapolis College of Art and Design in 2017.

Publications

Mamas Just Like You, Shout Mouse Press, illustration, 2022; Diarou's Not So Different, Shout Mouse Press, illustration, 2020 

Personal Statement

I believe in the inherent creativity in individuals above all else; and that we all have the ability to create art—we just have to be brave enough to try. I've been teaching across ages from pre-school to Continuing Education for four years, and strive to focus on giving substantial feedback and establishing respect amongst artists. 

Portfolio

Courses

Title Department Catalog Term

Description

This class is perfect for artists eager to explore the thrilling world of digital art. Start with traditional drawing techniques and then transition into the digital realm using software like Procreate. As you progress through the course, you'll have the chance to build a portfolio filled with digital creations, perfect for showcasing online or in print¿think posters and zines. Projects will cover everything from designing unique characters and creating cool merch like enamel pins, stickers, and tees to crafting vibrant digital paintings and illustrations for children's books. Plus, get inspired by guest presentations from contemporary illustrators influencing the art world with their boundary-pushing styles and innovative techniques.

Class Number

1079

Credits

1

Description

This class is perfect for artists eager to explore the thrilling world of digital art. Start with traditional drawing techniques and then transition into the digital realm using software like Procreate. As you progress through the course, you'll have the chance to build a portfolio filled with digital creations, perfect for showcasing online or in print¿think posters and zines. Projects will cover everything from designing unique characters and creating cool merch like enamel pins, stickers, and tees to crafting vibrant digital paintings and illustrations for children's books. Plus, get inspired by guest presentations from contemporary illustrators influencing the art world with their boundary-pushing styles and innovative techniques.

Class Number

1080

Credits

1

Description

Investigate visual storytelling through the dynamic art forms of comics and graphic novels. This course invites you to explore a range of creative techniques, including writing, storyboarding, penciling, inking, and coloring. Building a solid foundation in research methods will help you brainstorm and develop your ideas. You'll create compelling projects that explore narrative structures and seamlessly blend text with stunning visuals. Regular critiques will allow you to sharpen your skills. At the same time, inspiring visits to the Art Institute of Chicago will allow you to connect with contemporary artists, illustrators, and designers. Whether you're a seasoned artist or a beginner, this class is about unleashing your creativity and finding your unique voice in the art world.

Class Number

1043

Credits

1

Description

Investigate visual storytelling through the dynamic art forms of comics and graphic novels. This course invites you to explore a range of creative techniques, including writing, storyboarding, penciling, inking, and coloring. Building a solid foundation in research methods will help you brainstorm and develop your ideas. You'll create compelling projects that explore narrative structures and seamlessly blend text with stunning visuals. Regular critiques will allow you to sharpen your skills. At the same time, inspiring visits to the Art Institute of Chicago will allow you to connect with contemporary artists, illustrators, and designers. Whether you're a seasoned artist or a beginner, this class is about unleashing your creativity and finding your unique voice in the art world.

Class Number

2429

Credits

1

Description

Explore the illustration process as your instructor guides you from ideation to freehand sketching and ultimately creating a final illustration. Experiment with various materials and styles, including traditional and digital illustration techniques. As you craft your illustrative point of view throughout the course, you will also learn more about the landscape of contemporary illustration. This course will not focus on the development of observational drawing skills. All levels are welcome, even those with no prior drawing experience.

Class Number

2451

Credits

1