Love Notes and Open Tabs: A Conversation With Alex Leav
Alexandra Leav is an incredible fine artist from New York and creator of the juxtaposingly entertaining and stunning photobook Love Notes that rightfully deserves a spot on your IKEA Malm coffee table. In this Q&A, Alex chats about her inspirations for the book, her creative process, and what’s up next for her (I’m almost certain that if the OG Mona Lisa got lost that they’d hang up Alex’s rendition in its place…the pouty sass would be a stellar addition to the Louvre). Go and check her out folks!
What inspired this project (Love Notes)?
I wanted to create something fun and accessible.
Also, at the time, I was working on my thesis project for my Master of Fine Arts degree. The thesis became such a serious and weighty entity. Creating the book served as an artistic outlet for me; it was a project where I could explore similar ideas as my thesis but with far less pressure.
Can you tell us what the significance of the black-and-white old photos is and the meaning behind the notes?
The “love notes” are snippets of iMessage conversations between “lovers” which I collected throughout the last few years. The title is sarcastic; the notes are far from loving. They’re blunt and impertinent, shameless and unbelievable. They’re so ridiculous that they’re funny and enjoyable.
To me, they’re indicative of the way in which technology and, more specifically, social media affect human communication. These notes represent a very specific form of communication – one almost meant for sharing with friends or posting to Instagram.
The black-and-white old photographs are included to emphasize the sarcasm of the project and highlight the contrast between today’s notions of romance/love and traditional ones.
Aside from the stunning book, what is your favorite medium to use for your work?
This was the first time I’ve made a book! I usually create painting and sculpture, and I’d say those are my favorite mediums to work in.
I do love experimenting with new materials and processes, though. I had a lot of fun making this book – designing it, working with a publisher and production house, planning a launch party, etc. The process challenged me organizationally and socially in ways that painting and sculpture don’t usually.
How do you get inspired when you feel blocked creatively?
Creative block is the most frustrating. If I’m not feeling inspired or productive in my studio, I find that the best thing to do is step away. I’ll go to a gallery show or a museum and, often, the work of other artists lights a fire under me to create my own.
Jealousy is a motivator! I also love to read (articles, novels, artist monographs, etc.) and find that a picture or a word or a phrase usually sparks some sort of idea.
When do you produce the work you’re most proud of?
When I’ve been working through a question or a problem for a while and I finally feel satisfied with an answer.
If there's one thing you’d like people to take away from your art, what would it be?
I’d hope that any one person looking at my work would have their own takeaway – whether it be a question that arises or a feeling that is evoked.
Where can fans of your art find you and what have you got coming up?
You can find me on Instagram, @alxleav.
I recently graduated with an MFA from the School of Visual Arts, and I just signed a lease on a new studio space in Brooklyn! I’m excited to continue creating work and sharing it.
You can view more of Alex’s work on her portfolio here.