AJA Louden
AJA sounds like ‘Ajay’, short for Adrian Joseph Alexander) is an artist based in amiskwaciwâskahikan (Treaty 6, Edmonton, Alberta). Born to a family tree with roots split between Jamaica and Canada, Louden is a child of contrast. Bold and arresting freehand spray-painted portraits of pop culture figures from Jimi Hendrix and Richard Nixon to local heroes like Rollie Miles often alternate with hand-lettered designs and vibrant patterns borne of a background in graffiti. Louden looks to bring a multifaceted, collaborative, and multi-narrative approach to contemporary urban muralism.
A background in the sciences, including biology, chemistry, psychology and sociology is a major influence on the concepts and processes behind his work. A few years designing custom metal signage and a childhood full of building wooden skateboard ramps intensified AJA’s interest in industrial design and the built environment. His work can be found around the province of Alberta where he lives and works. A travel lover, Louden has also created work in several other countries, including Berlin, Barcelona, Florence, Prague, and the UK.
“Vignette sketches capturing views from the river valley. The goal is to highlight beauty in the natural world that often gets passed by, asking the viewer to look more closely at the world around them, to celebrate the tiny details and sometimes, to discover the unexpected stories hidden within.”
Located at Glasses Half Full
Project Complete: September 2022