Allister Ann
Interview by Taylor Boylston
I recently had the privilege to interview Allister Ann, a Denver-born designer, photographer, artist, etc, etc, etc. She does it all, and boy does she do it well. As a three headed creative hydra she maintains a number of constantly updated online presences, with a blog, flickr page and etsy account where you can view her thoughts and portfolio of art, fashion and photography. Don't be surprised if you see Allister's cross plattform dance begin to turn heads as she keeps in-step with her current productive pace.
So I know you've moved around and traveled quite a bit. How have the different places you've been inspired what you do?
Each place has its own distinctive character,and that fascinates me.The natural earth tones of New Mexico,the misty coastlines of Washington,the busy downtown streets of Los Angeles and New York.The beauty is all there waiting to be captured.But I have to say as much as I love the uniqueness of each location, it's the people that I meet that make the difference.They are the ones that truly create excitement and inspiration.
What has been your favorite place of residence? Why?
Denver will always be what I call home;family and old friends are there.The place of beginnings, support and love.
Living in Los Angeles was a positive experience and led me to career opportunities.
Nashville is lovely.A small town atmosphere in a large city with so many incredibly talented people.
Each city becomes its own chapter with its own stories,but most importantly;each city has brought new people in my life.So I can't say one city is favored over another.
I can only say I've been happy everywhere I've lived so far.
And if you could go anywhere, for any amount of time, where would you go, and for how long?
As long as I can remember London and Paris have always been at the top of my list. History and tradition,beautiful countryside,and elegant people.I'm determined to go next year for a visit.
Now, you design, sew, photograph, and make art. That's a lot of different medias. How did you get into doing so many things?
I came from a family of artists so we were always encouraged to create and try new things.Love of fashion at an early age led me to learning how to sew and designing clothes.Pursuing that passion I enrolled at FIDM (Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising) in Los Angeles and found illustration was something I really enjoyed.Photography started as a hobby that somehow turned into a profession.That was just a happy accident.
With each media I have attempted I have been lucky enough to meet talented people willing to teach and encourage me.All I can say is that I have been very blessed,and that my goal is simply to continue to challenge myself and learn as much as I can.
Is there anything you haven't done that's on your list of things to explore (art wise)?
Video is what I have found intoxicating this past year. The way cameras are evolving to incorporate it..making quality filming more accessible.something I want to try my hand at.
Also, after recently visiting Hatch Show Print, I gained such an appreciation for letterpress printmaking.What an incredible art form.
What would you say your mission is? Why do you create?
Asking that question to me is like asking someone...why do you eat.I can't imagine anyone not doing whatever it is that gives them a sense of fulfillment, reward,or accomplishment.If we're fortunate enough to be able to make a living at it,that's a bonus.But doing something that makes you happy,no matter what it is..is what it's all about.
If you were given a million dollars right now, how would you spend it?
Tough to answer,because money has never been a priority.To me it's more important to be doing what you love.Extra cash would just give me the ability to accomplish the things I want to do a little quicker and easier,but I question if that would necessarily be a good thing
If we were to look in your purse right now, what would we find?
attached photo:::
How about your refrigerator?
A small variety of things.Healthy and maybe not so healthy;I have quite the sweet tooth.But there's never much in there because I'd prefer to eat out and try new things.
attached photo:::
Who are your top 3-5 musicians at the moment?
Metric
Nicole Reynolds
Empire of the Sun
The National
and always Sigur Ros
What changes do you want to see happen in this world in the next 5-10 years?
MLK quote:
"almost always the creative dedicated minority has made the world better".
That the minority will rise to the occasion, and I desire be one of them.
Lastly, what do you wish you knew growing up?
I'm still growing up so I guess the question is...what have I learned so far.
no matter how hard you try, or how much you want something,or how much you plan,life will never end up being what you expect it to be.
change is enviable.so enjoy the now and appreciate the journey
"Life is what happens to you while you're busy making other plans" John Lennon
