We had the good fortune of connecting with Chris Allen and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Chris, what do you think makes you most happy? Why?
I absolutely love to create, it’s my drug of choice. One of the most gratifying feelings is having an idea and bringing that idea into reality. What keeps you coming back is embarking on a creative journey without knowing how the outcome will turn out and then appreciating what you have produced.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I work as a UX designer in addition to running my own art business. The road to become a designer was quite intriguing, and I enjoy what I do. I studied UX design at UT Austin and set off on a 6 month journey to find employment which taught me a lot about myself. While searching for an opportunity to get my foot into the design industry I enhanced my networking skills, studiousness, perseverance and attention to details. That period was one of the most growthful moments that I’ve experienced in my life. Since then, I continue to mentor many other entry level designers seeking to make an entry into the design industry. One thing I would tell anyone seeking to achieve a goal is to not take a no for an answer. When things don’t go in your favor, reassess your approach and keep trying. You have no choice to succeed as long as you keep trying.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I would start the morning off bright and early with coffee and breakfast at First Watch. After breakfast, I would take them to ride bikes at my favorite bike trail in Fort Worth to burn off our food. Next, I would bring my friend back to my home to shower, nap and then change clothes for later. For the evening we would go sky diving and then grab some pizza at Paulios in Arlington. Lastly, we would shower once again and then go to a house concert featuring our favorite DJ at Stereo Live Dallas. We would take tequila shots with lime all night and then catch a Uber back to my place.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
There have been quite a few people that have definitely inspired and encouraged me throughout my journey. I would like to give a special shout out to Alysha Klees, David Hernandez, Justin Woods, Sharron Prelow and Ashley Simon.

Website: https://www.nocturnalartwork.net/

Instagram: nocturnal_artwork

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/uxchris-allen/

Facebook: Chris Allen

Other: TikTok @nocturnal_artwork1

Image Credits
All image rights belong to me

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