Alex Israel ’00 knew he wanted to pursue art long before he arrived at Harvard-Westlake. Recognized for his talent in drawing, Israel said Harvard-Westlake helped transform that interest into a serious pursuit.

“I was always interested in art,” Israel said. “But it was at Harvard-Westlake, under the guidance of Marianne Hall, that I began to feel like an artist. She saw something in me and made me take it seriously.”

After graduating, Israel attended Yale University, where he majored in studio art. While still in high school, he began interning for artist Lita Albuquerque and later worked as a student guide at the Yale University Art Gallery. Israel said that those experiences led to valuable connections and internships with artist John Baldessari and the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA).

“My internship at MOCA evolved into a paying job after graduation, and I built my career from there,” Israel said.

Israel said one of the greatest challenges of building a career in the arts was dealing with criticism.

“Overcoming the fear of criticism and rejection,” Israel said. “You have to put yourself out there before you feel safe doing it.”

Israel has become one of Los Angeles’ most recognizable contemporary artists, but he said finding an artistic voice is an ongoing process.

“It’s still developing,” Israel said. “Your voice shows up the moment you stop playing it safe.”

Technology has played a major role in the growth of Israel’s career. He embraced platforms like YouTube and social media early, using them to share his work and reach audiences beyond traditional galleries. He said that visibility is one of the most important aspects of the art industry.

“I didn’t wait for the art world to catch up,” Israel said. “I went where the audience already was. Visibility is a medium.”

Israel said resilience is the most important quality for students hoping to pursue creative careers.

“Success in creative fields comes down to resilience,” Israel said. “Stay true to your vision, hold onto what inspires you, and keep going.”

Today, Israel said he spends most of his days in the studio, beginning each morning with a two-hour walk that helps him prepare for the day ahead.

“The morning walk is the reset,” Israel said. “It’s where I process everything and remember why I do it.”