Alejandra Vernon grew up a student of the world living in many different countries including Ecuador, Argentina, Jamaica, and Poland, as well as all over the United States. Additionally, she was fluent in several languages speaking Spanish, Russian, and English with ease. Though never allowed to attend a traditional school, she studied ballet and taught herself both academically and artistically from an early age. Her sister Carol reminisces: “Self-education was the only way for us to learn. Alex had created extraordinary paintings by the age of 8 or 9 and was reading Rimbaud at age 15.”

This variety of life experiences spurred her interest in working with mixed media. Alejandra’s artwork uses collage to capture the vibrancy and personality of different cities, including our personal favorite Portland Cityscape.

In later years, Alejandra was an active member of the Arts Council for Long Beach and her local church. She had just decided to move to Nicaragua to work with animals when she unexpectedly passed away in January 2015. While we’re saddened by the loss for her family, friends and the artistic community, we’re proud to publish selections of Alejandra’s memorable work. Proceeds from the sales of Alejandra’s cards benefit the Arts Council for Long Beach.