For This San Ramon Photographer, There's Metamorphosis in Everything

Growing into a new and improved form of oneself is both an intimate experience and a universal concept. Photographer Alexis Floyd has gone through her own metamorphosis of late, and now it’s time for the final stage: spreading her wings and showing her growth to the world.

Floyd’s first solo show, Rhythm Of The Butterfly, showcases her stylish portrait photography on Saturday at Jettison Creative in San Francisco.

Floyd, a 29-year-old artist from San Ramon, admits she’s a bit nervous about her show. But even those nerves serve a purpose in the transformation process.

“I’ve always kind of lived my life in fear, and I was always scared of trying new things,” says Floyd during a recent phone call. But lately she’s been putting herself out there, which has helped her overcome her fears and brought about some life-changing results — including becoming an artist-in-residence at Jettison Creative.

“Me even applying for the artist-in-residence was a leap of faith and a testament to my evolution,” says Floyd. “And you can see the growth in my work. It’s different than anything I’ve posted on social media or on my website.”

On Saturday, in addition to her vibrant photography, Floyd is debuting other creative endeavors: collages made from plants, and jewelry made of cowrie shells. A nod to both African American and African culture, the pieces are representative of her identity as a Black young woman.

“My work is very intimate,” attests Floyd, noting that her art is about rebirth, transformation and perseverance, as well as spirituality. “My hope for everything I do,” says Floyd, “is for my work to be representative of God’s love and light.”

Ultimately, Floyd wants her work to be a mirror for attendees, so they can see themselves in her work, and recognize the progress that they’ve made.

“I want this to be an immersive experience,” says Floyd, “and a place for healing.”

Alexis Floyd’s ‘Rhythm Of The Butterfly’ is a free exhibition on Saturday, Aug. 10, at Jettison Creative in San Francisco from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Details here.