Alex Relaz

Artist Statement

Alex Relaz focuses almost entirely on unfiltered nature. Seeing the trees and what lives amongst them grounds him, quiets his mind, and inspires him, both in the art world and out. Nature conservation has played a large part in Alex's journey in finding himself. As a Christian, he feels he is called to be a steward and a protector of the land God created for humanity. As a man, he contemplates his relation to that land and the creatures that live on it. He shows his faith through acts of conservation and love for the Earth. Alex seeks to foster an understanding and respect for the subject in the viewer, to remove personal biases and offer new perspectives. Education is the only way to save the species on this planet. Ignorance, hate, and greed can be overcome by love and education.

Alex draws inspiration from musical artist John Denver, photographer Ansel Adams, and conservationist Sir David Attenborough. His work centers around one particular lyric written by Denver: "He learned to know the wilderness, and to be a man that way." To know the earth that surrounds you is to know yourself. Alex views worship as more than going to church and singing hymns; it is caring for the home God gave him and doing good works for those who can thank him and those who cannot. At his core, he believes that to be a good man, he must give back to God the way He gave to us.