Life & Work with Alejandra Montaño of Tucson, Arizona

Today we’d like to introduce you to Alejandra Montaño

Hi Alejandra, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I was born and raised in the heart of Tucson, Arizona—Barrio Viejo. My childhood was immersed in rich culture; every house in my neighborhood was a storyteller, and each corner held a piece of history. This deeply shaped my identity and continues to significantly influence my artistic style and inspiration today.

I have been painting for as long as I can remember; I am a self-taught artist. My parents, both artists themselves, always encouraged me to embrace my unique style without imposing their own. They allowed me to explore and experiment, which helped me evolve as an artist, and for that, I will be forever grateful.

My inspiration comes from my travels, particularly throughout the Southwest and Mexico. I love to weave elements of my culture into my work, reflecting the vibrant colors and textures of the places I love.

Currently, I work at The Lost Barrio Gallery, a woodshop and an artist’s playground! It is a collaborative space that fuels my creativity. There, I engage with other artists, each bringing their own unique perspectives, which bridge the gap between all the arts—whether painting, furniture-making, music, or food.

In each piece I create, I strive to honor the vibrant culture that has shaped me. I also honor the community that has uplifted me and the journeys that continue to inspire me. As I stand in front of a blank canvas with a brush in hand, I feel the whispers of my ancestors urging me forward, reminding me that art is not just about the final piece; it is about the journey, the connections, and the stories waiting to be told.

My work has been exhibited across Arizona, as well as in England and Santa Fe. I am excited to share that I will soon be opening my own gallery in Barrio Viejo, named Casa Montaño. So, stay tuned!

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Establishing a consistent practice is essential, especially when life can pull us in various directions. I’ve experienced long periods where painting felt out of reach, but I found other ways to stay creative. I’ve learned to embrace the tools at hand—space, time, and materials. Ultimately, it’s about discovering different avenues for self-expression, even in small or unconventional ways, that can nurture and sustain the creative spark.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I think my personal style as an artist is best defined by the vibrant colors and boldness present in all my works, whether I’m painting, sculpting, carving, cooking, or creating jewelry.

I also thrive on the immediacy of completing a painting in one day, as this helps me fully capture my vision. If I leave a work to sit, I often lose touch with that initial spark of inspiration, resulting in unfinished pieces that can remain sitting around for months or even years.

Can you talk to us a bit about the role of luck?
We all have our ups and downs in life, but I feel incredibly fortunate to have been born to my parents. They opened my eyes to the beauty of the world, introducing me to the art scene, music, and travel from a young age. Growing up in Barrio Viejo enriched my cultural landscape, and I cherish the diversity and creativity that surrounds it.

I’m grateful for the opportunities I’ve had to travel to so many amazing places; each adds a unique layer to my perspective. I especially cherish seeing my favorite paintings in museums all over the world.

Now, I’m grateful to share these experiences with my son. It’s fulfilling to pass down the love for exploration and creativity that my parents instilled in me. Each trip and artistic encounter we share brings us closer and enriches his understanding of the wider world in ways I hope will shape him just as profoundly.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://alejandraarte.com
• Instagram: artista.alejandra
• Facebook: artista.alejandra